South Africa vs Pakistan: Pakistan Takes Control, South Africa to Bat Again!

The 2nd Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Cape Town delivered an incredible display of cricket. South Africa put up a mammoth total of 615/10, with Ryan Rickelton's sensational double century taking center stage in their innings. Following this remarkable batting performance, South Africa's bowlers made quick work of Pakistan, dismissing them for just 194/10 and enforcing a follow-on on the same day. However, Pakistan bounced back with resilience on Day 4. Led by an outstanding century from captain Shan Masood, the team showed great fight, with each batsman contributing to the cause. With their impressive performance, Pakistan has now taken the lead, forcing South Africa to bat again. Here's a recap of the thrilling Day 4 action in the South Africa vs Pakistan Test.

Captain Leading from the Front

Pakistan experienced a significant collapse in their first innings, which led to South Africa enforcing a follow-on. However, when Pakistan came out to bat again, they initially looked in firm control. Babar Azam, who was promoted to open after his fifty in the first innings, partnered with his captain, Shan Masood, to have a fantastic start in the second innings. They built a solid foundation with a 200-run partnership, with Shan Masood scoring a century and Babar Azam contributing a well-made fifty, which ultimately saved the day for Pakistan.

Both batters approached their innings solidly, playing at a rate of around four runs per over. This frustrated the South African bowlers, as it took them 46 overs to secure their first breakthrough by dismissing Babar Azam for 81 runs off 124 balls. Meanwhile, Shan Masood continued his innings and gradually ticked off the runs. The other batters who joined Masood at the crease struggled to stay longer as South Africa managed to take wickets at regular intervals. When Shan Masood was dismissed by young Kwene Maphaka, the score was 329 for 5, and he had built a strong foundation.

Then, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha formed a decent partnership in the middle order, helping Pakistan achieve a lead after trailing by 615 runs in two innings. With Pakistan holding a significant lead and four wickets remaining, they have a key opportunity. If they can bat through the fifth day’s second session and put together a lead of around 200 runs, it could pose a challenge for South Africa, potentially leading to a collapse. However, South Africa also has the chance to claim all the wickets today and secure a victory before the close of play on day four.

Stay tuned for more updates and live commentary on the South Africa vs. Pakistan match!