Pakistan commenced their second innings at 213 for one on day four of the final Test against South Africa, attempting to recover from a follow-on situation after scoring only 194 runs in their first innings. Captain Shan Masood’s century has initiated a fightback, although the tourists still trail South Africa’s first innings total of 615 runs by 208 runs. Conditions may complicate their efforts as the match progresses.
On the fourth day of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town, Pakistan began their second innings with a score of 213 for one, following South Africa’s formidable first-innings total of 615 runs. Pakistan had initially struggled, being dismissed for just 194 in their first innings, thus being forced to follow on. National captain Shan Masood led from the front with an unbeaten century, scoring 102 runs, as he and Babar Azam built a solid partnership of 205 runs. Babar contributed significantly with 81 runs before he was caught and bowled by Marco Jansen.
Despite the impressive display, Pakistan still trails by 208 runs, necessitating a strong performance to close the gap. On the first day, one of Pakistan’s batters, Saim Ayub, sustained an ankle injury, leaving the team effectively two wickets down. The batting conditions, while currently favorable, are expected to deteriorate as the pitch may soon begin to turn, adding further challenges for the visitors.
In stark contrast to South Africa’s first innings, they previously dismissed Pakistan for 194 with relative ease, with the youngest debutant, Kwena Maphaka, claiming two wickets in his first Test match. Notably, South Africa has already secured a place in the World Test Championship final and is keen to clinch the series with a 2-0 victory after a narrow win in the first Test in Pretoria.
The match in question holds significant importance as it is the final Test between Pakistan and South Africa in a two-match series. South Africa’s dominance in the first Test, in which they won by two wickets, provides a backdrop to the current Test’s events. The match at Newlands has seen Pakistan face considerable challenges, having been bowled out for a low score in their first innings. However, the performance by Shan Masood and the batting resilience of the Pakistani side in the second innings reflect a spirited fightback. The ongoing match not only affects their standing in this series but also has implications for the World Test Championship, for which South Africa has already qualified for the final.
In summation, Pakistan’s performance on the fourth day of the final Test against South Africa highlights a commendable fightback led by captain Shan Masood’s remarkable century. Despite trailing by 208 runs, the team exhibits potential to challenge South Africa’s substantial first innings total. The match’s progression is critical as both teams aim for a decisive conclusion. With the looming threat of a deteriorating pitch, the upcoming days will be pivotal for both sides in determining the series outcome.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
