First Test: Noman Ali Spins Pakistan Into Commanding Position Against South Africa

KEY POINTS

Noman Ali starred with the ball, taking 4/85 to put Pakistan in control on Day 2.
Pakistan posted a strong first innings total of 378.
Senuran Muthusamy impressed with a 6-wicket haul.
Tony de Zorzi’s unbeaten 81 kept South Africa’s hopes alive.

LAHORE, Pakistan: Pakistan find themselves in a commanding position, with South Africa struggling at 216/6, still trailing by 162 runs in their first innings at stumps on Day 2 of the first Test in Lahore.

The day was marked by a spirited bowling performance from left-arm spinner Noman Ali, who claimed 4 wickets for 85 runs, effectively halting South Africa’s momentum.

Pakistan Build Strong First Innings Total

Resuming the day at a solid overnight position, Pakistan were eventually bowled out for 378 in 110.4 overs. Key contributions came from Imam-ul-Haq (93) and Salman Agha (93), both narrowly missing out on centuries.

Shan Masood (76) and Mohammad Rizwan (75) also played crucial roles in anchoring the innings. However, a sudden middle-order collapse saw Pakistan lose three wickets for no runs at 199, with Senuran Muthusamy doing the bulk of the damage.

The left-arm spinner Muthusamy finished with a brilliant 6-wicket haul (6/117), exploiting the footmarks and slow turn offered by the Gaddafi Stadium pitch. Prenelan Subrayen supported well with 2 wickets, while Rabada and Harmer chipped in with one apiece.

South Africa Struggle Despite de Zorzi’s Resistance

South Africa’s reply started cautiously but faltered against Pakistan’s spin-heavy attack. Tony de Zorzi showed admirable composure, finishing the day unbeaten on 81 (140 balls, 9 fours, 1 six), holding the innings together as wickets fell around him.

Ryan Rickelton (71) provided early resistance, forming a steady 129-run partnership with de Zorzi before falling to Salman Agha.

The rest of the lineup failed to offer substantial support — Dewald Brevis fell for a golden duck, and Kyle Verreynne was trapped lbw for 2, both dismissed by Noman Ali in a devastating spell.

Sajid Khan and Agha Salman picked up one wicket each, with Pakistan’s spinners dominating the proceedings under fading Lahore light.

Match Situation: Pakistan in Control

At 216/6, South Africa will need a strong lower-order resistance on Day 3 to avoid conceding a significant first-innings lead. With only three wickets remaining (including Rabada, Harmer, and Subrayen), the pressure is firmly on the visitors. Pakistan, buoyed by their spin trio, will look to wrap up the innings early and possibly push for a result on a turning track.