The highly anticipated first Test between Pakistan and South Africa got off to a dramatic start, with a gripping day one showcasing an intense battle between bat and ball. At stumps, Pakistan managed 211 runs in their first innings, while South Africa, in reply, were 82 for 3, trailing by 129 runs.
Historically, the head-to-head record heavily favors South Africa. The two teams have faced off in 28 Test matches, with South Africa emerging victorious 15 times, while Pakistan managed only six wins. Seven matches ended in draws. South Africa’s win probability stands at 53.57%, significantly higher than Pakistan’s 21.43%, reflecting their dominance in this rivalry.
The first day was marked by pace domination, with a total of 13 wickets falling and only 293 runs scored. Pakistan initially struggled with the bat but fought back impressively with the ball, dismantling South Africa’s top order to regain a foothold in the match.
South Africa’s performance in this Test holds added significance as a win would secure their spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final. Currently leading the WTC standings, the Proteas are determined to maintain their momentum.
Both teams opted for pace-heavy bowling attacks. South Africa fielded Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Dane Paterson, and debutant Corbin Bosch, while Pakistan relied on Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad, and Aamer Jamal.
Winning the toss and electing to field first, South Africa capitalized on the overcast conditions. Debutant Corbin Bosch struck early, dismissing Pakistan skipper Shan Masood with a sharp delivery caught at gully by Marco Jansen. Dane Paterson followed up with a beauty to send Saim Ayub back to the pavilion. Pakistan’s top order continued to falter as Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel were removed cheaply, leaving the visitors in deep trouble.
A valiant 79-run partnership between Kamran Ghulam (54) and Mohammad Rizwan (27) provided some resistance, but Paterson’s relentless accuracy broke the stand. Pakistan’s tailenders could only add 52 runs for the last four wickets, with Marco Jansen wrapping up the innings. Paterson claimed a remarkable five-wicket haul, while Bosch impressed with four wickets on debut.
In response, South Africa’s innings also started shakily. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Khurram Shahzad, struck crucial early blows. Shahzad dismissed Tony de Zorzi (2) and Ryan Rickelton (8), while Mohammad Abbas, playing his first Test since 2021, removed Stubbs (9) to leave the Proteas reeling at 66 for 3.
However, opener Aiden Markram stood firm with a gritty 47, anchoring the innings alongside skipper Temba Bavuma (4*). The duo managed to survive the day’s final overs, ensuring South Africa did not lose further wickets before stumps.
Day two promises more action as Pakistan aims to capitalize on their strong start with the ball, while South Africa will look to stabilize and narrow the deficit. The match hangs delicately in the balance, with both teams eyeing an opportunity to gain the upper hand.