Lahore, October 13, 2025 – Pakistan staged a remarkable comeback on the second day of the first Test against South Africa, ending the day in a commanding position despite an early morning batting collapse.
The hosts bowled with discipline and precision to restrict South Africa to 216 for six at stumps, keeping firm control of the match at the Gaddafi Stadium.
Resuming at 313 for five, Pakistan’s innings quickly unraveled as the final five wickets added only 16 runs, leaving them all out for 378. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan fell for a well-made 75, while Salman Ali Agha missed a deserved century, dismissed for 93 after a loose stroke. South Africa’s left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy was the star of the morning, claiming a brilliant five-wicket haul that included three wickets in a single over, derailing Pakistan’s hopes of crossing the 400-run mark.
However, the bowlers brought Pakistan right back into the game. The new-ball pair applied relentless pressure before Nauman Ali dismissed Aiden Markram with a superb delivery, aided by a sharp catch from Rizwan behind the stumps. South Africa’s middle order fought back through Ryan Rickelton and Tony de Zorzi, who stitched together a steady 32-run stand, but wickets at crucial moments prevented any big partnerships from forming.
By stumps, South Africa were still trailing by 162 runs, with Pakistan holding the upper hand. The home side’s bowlers will look to finish the job early on Day 3 and push for a decisive first-innings lead.