Key points
- Keshav Maharaj claims brilliant seven-wicket haul
- South Africa reach 185-4, trail by 148
- Spin expected to dominate Day 3 contest
RAWALPINDI: The second Test between Pakistan and South Africa resumed on Wednesday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, with Pakistan firmly in control after two dominant days of play and looking to extend their advantage as South Africa struggles to stay in the contest.
Pakistan were bowled out for 333 in their first innings on Day 2, thanks largely to skipper Shan Masood’s fluent 87 and Saud Shakeel’s composed 66. Abdullah Shafique also contributed 57, helping the hosts build a solid foundation before South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj produced a stunning spell, taking seven wickets to limit Pakistan’s total.
In reply, South Africa reached 185 for 4 at stumps, still trailing by 148 runs. The visitors showed some resistance through Aiden Markram and Rassie van der Dussen, but Pakistan’s bowlers maintained control with disciplined spells.
As play resumes on Day 3, Pakistan will look to tighten its grip on the match by striking early and extending its lead in the series, having already won the opening Test in Lahore. South Africa, on the other hand, will depend on their lower middle order to fight back and narrow the deficit.
With the pitch expected to deteriorate further, spin is likely to play an increasingly crucial role in what promises to be a decisive day’s play in Rawalpindi.
