During day three of the second Test at Cape Town, Pakistan retaliated impressively after following on, with Shan Masood achieving an unbeaten century of 102 runs and forming a substantial partnership with Babar Azam. Despite the strong comeback, Pakistan still faces a significant 208-run deficit against South Africa, who posted 615 in their first innings.
In the second Test match at Cape Town, Pakistan staged a remarkable response after being compelled to follow on by South Africa, who amassed a staggering 615 runs in their first innings. The opening pair of Babar Azam and Shan Masood forged a strong partnership of 205 runs, with Masood remaining unbeaten at 102 at the close of play, while Azam contributed 81 runs before being dismissed. Pakistan, who began the day at 64-3, now trail South Africa by 208 runs with two days of play remaining, still requiring an additional 208 runs to reach parity with the hosts, who could seal their victory by batting again.
The Test match between South Africa and Pakistan has profound significance, particularly as it serves as a precursor to the World Test Championship final, where South Africa will face Australia in June. South Africa’s first innings performance featured substantial contributions from Rickelton, Bavuma, and Verreynne, who together eclipsed 600 runs, demonstrating their dominance in the match. Pakistan, after a disappointing initial innings, found renewed hope through Azam and Masood’s substantial partnership, although they still face an uphill battle to secure a result.
As day three concluded, Pakistan finds itself in a challenging position, needing to overcome a significant deficit to avoid defeat. Their valiant efforts, particularly through the partnership of Azam and Masood, rekindle hopes of a competitive match. However, they will need to maintain their form and capitalize on their momentum to tackle the formidable South African bowling attack in the coming days.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
