Pakistan’s cricket team struggled on the third day of the second Test against South Africa, falling to 155-6 and trailing by 460 runs. The notable highlight was 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka’s debut wicket of Babar Azam, which led to a rapid decline in Pakistan’s batting performance. South Africa had previously posted a formidable total of 615 runs in their first innings.
On the third day of the second Test match in Cape Town, South Africa, Pakistan stumbled to 155-6, trailing the home side by 460 runs. South Africa’s 18-year-old debutant, Kwena Maphaka, celebrated a significant milestone by claiming the wicket of Pakistan’s captain, Babar Azam, who managed to score 58 runs from 127 balls. Pakistan’s position is precarious, particularly since Saim Ayub, a key opener, is unavailable due to a six-week injury layoff following a fractured ankle.
Despite a promising partnership between Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, who scored 46 runs, the Pakistani batting lineup faltered after the fall of Azam’s wicket, losing two more wickets shortly thereafter. Aamer Jamal remains not out on five runs, with tailender Khurram Shahzad still not having scored at lunch.
In their first innings, South Africa set a staggering total of 615 runs, featuring remarkable performances from Ryan Rickelton, who scored a career-high 259, alongside centuries from captain Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne. This match marks the second Test of the series, following South Africa’s narrow victory against Pakistan in the first Test, which secured their place in the World Test Championship final scheduled for June against Australia. The Australian team also solidified their position in the final following a recent victory against India.
In conclusion, Pakistan is facing a critical challenge in the second Test against South Africa, with their batting lineup under pressure as they continue to trail significantly. The early loss of Babar Azam has put them in a difficult position, and with the absence of Saim Ayub, their prospects to recover and avoid follow-on appear bleak. South Africa’s dominance with both bat and ball underscores their preparation for the upcoming World Test Championship final.
Original Source: apnews.com
