South Africa enforced the follow-on against Pakistan after bowling them out for 194, leading by 421 runs at Newlands. Pakistan’s batting collapsed following a solid partnership between Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan. In contrast, South African opener Ryan Rickelton scored an impressive 259 runs, reinforcing South Africa’s dominant position in the Test match.
On the third day of the second Test at Newlands, South Africa decisively enforced the follow-on after dismissing Pakistan for a mere 194 runs, establishing a commanding first innings lead of 421 runs. Pakistan’s disintegration was highlighted by a significant fourth-wicket partnership of 98 runs between Babar Azam, who scored 58 runs, and Mohammad Rizwan, who contributed 46 runs. The partnership was disrupted by 18-year-old debutant Kwena Maphaka shortly after the morning drinks break, when Babar was caught behind by Kyle Verreynne. Rizwan soon followed suit, succumbing to Wiaan Mulder after a risky charge down the pitch resulted in an edge onto his stumps. The Pakistani batting lineup faced further difficulties in the absence of the injured opening batsman, Saim Ayub, leading to minimal resistance from the other players.
In stark contrast, South Africa dominated the proceedings on the second day as makeshift opener Ryan Rickelton achieved a joint seventh-highest Test score for South Africa with an impressive 259 runs. His outstanding innings, which lasted 343 balls and featured 29 fours and three sixes, provided a solid foundation for South Africa’s total of 566 for seven at tea. This performance has firmly positioned the South African side in control of the match. Previously, South Africa qualified for the World Test Championship final with a thrilling two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first Test held at Centurion’s SuperSport Park on December 29. This victory was marked by dramatic moments reminiscent of the T20 format, as tailenders managed to secure a victory despite a prior collapse, offering Pakistan a significant opportunity to break their long-standing winless streak in Tests played in South Africa.
The article discusses a crucial Test match between Pakistan and South Africa where South Africa has established a dominant position. This context is marked by Pakistan’s struggles with their batting order, specifically highlighted by the absence of a key player. Furthermore, the article references Ryan Rickelton’s remarkable performance that underscores South Africa’s batting prowess and builds upon the history of the teams’ confrontations, including a recent World Test Championship scenario. The developments of this Test match illustrate the significant competitive dynamics within international cricket, particularly in the ongoing series between South Africa and Pakistan.
In summary, the second Test at Newlands has showcased South Africa’s clear superiority over Pakistan, underscored by their significant first innings lead of 421 runs after bowling out Pakistan for 194. The collapse of Pakistan’s batting lineup was especially notable after a promising partnership between Azam and Rizwan. South Africa’s strength is further amplified by Ryan Rickelton’s outstanding batting performance. As this match progresses, it will be critical to observe whether Pakistan can mount a substantial resistance in their follow-on innings.
Original Source: www.dawn.com
