Mohammad Abbas led a stunning bowling display as he took four wickets, bringing Pakistan within two wickets of victory against South Africa on the fourth day at Centurion. South Africa, chasing a target of 148, faltered from 96-4 to 99-8 as Pakistan looked to achieve their first Test win in South Africa in 18 years.
On the fourth day at Centurion, South Africa found themselves 32 runs short of victory while Pakistan required just two more wickets to secure an impressive win. Mohammad Abbas was pivotal for Pakistan, capturing four wickets in a relentless spell of 13 overs, severely handicapping South Africa’s efforts to chase a target of 148. By lunch, South Africa had a dismal score of 116-8, relying heavily on their lower order.
Abbas’s exceptional performance, registering figures of 6 for 43, occurred as South Africa appeared set for a comfortable victory while needing only 50 runs with six wickets remaining. However, an unfortunate dismissal of captain Temba Bavuma for 40—who mistakenly believed he had edged the ball—was a critical turning point. Subsequently, Abbas dismissed Aiden Markram, followed by quick wickets from David Bedingham and Corbin Bosch, causing South Africa to plunge from a stable position at 96-4 to 99-8.
Pakistan’s potential victory would mark their first Test win in South Africa in 18 years, while South Africa was aiming for a win to solidify their standings for the World Test Championship final in June. After a challenging start at 27-3 overnight, South Africa’s hopes seemed bright with Bavuma and Markram at the crease. Yet, it was Abbas’s return to the team after three years that dramatically swayed the match in Pakistan’s favor.
The article discusses a thrilling Test match between Pakistan and South Africa, focusing on the fourth day of play where Mohammad Abbas delivered a remarkable bowling performance. The match unfolded with South Africa needing a modest target of 148 runs to clinch the first test of a two-match series, while Pakistan aimed for their first Test victory on South African soil in nearly two decades. The stakes were high for both teams, with implications for the World Test Championship, adding intensity to the contest.
In conclusion, Pakistan is on the verge of a historic Test victory against South Africa, thanks to the outstanding bowling performance of Mohammad Abbas, who dismantled South Africa’s batting lineup after they seemed poised for success. The match highlights the unpredictability and excitement inherent in cricket, especially in the context of a significant encounter that may ultimately influence the World Test Championship standings.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
