South Africa produced an impressive performance to beat Pakistan by eight wickets in their second Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and level their two-match series at one apiece.
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Pakistan collapses on Day 4 Pakistan had resumed Day 4 at 94-4 and were in need of a strong effort from their lower order to push towards victory, yet they capitulated and lost six wickets for 44 runs to be dismissed for only 138 runs (Reuters).
Home hopes had rested with Babar Azam who entered the morning at 49 before being trapped leg before wicket by Simon Harmer early. Soon thereafter he picked off Mohammad Rizwan and others quickly before sparking their collapse – Geo News’ Spin Masterclass made up part of this devastating decline.
Harmer made headlines, finishing with 6-50 and becoming only the eighth bowler ever to reach 1,000 first-class wickets. Keshav Maharaj added further damage, having taken seven wickets already.
South Africa needed only 68 runs to secure victory against Pakistan’s second innings and raced there within 12.3 overs.
Chase and Closure Chasing their target with ease, South African skipper Aiden Markram led his side’s chase with an aggressive 42 off 45 balls before falling short by three wickets. Support was provided by Ryan Rickelton (25*) and Tony de Zorzi – with eight wickets still standing by closing out victory with ease.
The Economic Times
What This Means
For South Africa, this was an impressive display away from home, showcasing their ability to thrive under conditions traditionally considered challenging for them. Markram acknowledged that their victory gave their side confidence as they proved “character” under pressure.
Pakistan’s repeated lower-order failure and inability to capitalize on promising situations points towards deeper issues within their team’s system, according to captain Shan Masood. Masood acknowledged as much by noting problems finishing off innings and capitalising on starts as key turning points of play. (Geo News/Turning Points).
Pakistan’s second innings came crumbling down on Day 4, as their key batters failed to convert their batted opportunities.
Harmer’s early double strike to Babar and Rizwan was instrumental in depriving Pakistan any hope of posting a competitive total.
South Africa’s bowlers executed their strategy flawlessly and batters were then able to complete their tasks without panicking.
Once the series is in a state of equilibrium, momentum should shift back toward both teams. South Africa will leave this match feeling encouraged about their performance under adverse conditions, while Pakistan must use this match as an opportunity to review missed chances and ensure their middle and lower order perform better.
Final Word
South Africa delivered a near-flawless performance in Rawalpindi to level the series and hand Pakistan an unexpected defeat at home. Their bowling dominance–particularly against their bowlers–and the home team’s collapse will surely leave an indelible mark on Pakistan while beguiling South Africa fans alike. Now with balance restored between both teams, pressure remains on both to step up their game as this series unfolds.