Pakistan's Resilient Openers Keep Test Alive After Follow-On

Pakistan’s openers, Babar Azam and Shan Masood, fought back with a solid 205-run partnership to keep the second Test against South Africa alive at Newlands. The visitors had to follow on after they got bowled out for 194 on day three, responding to South Africa’s commanding first-innings total of 615. Pakistan began the day on 64-3, trailing by 314 runs with South Africa yet to bat again. Azam, the former captain, scored 58 before Kwena Maphaka dismissed him, ending a 98-run stand with wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, who contributed 46.

Azam’s dismissal triggered a collapse with Pakistan losing seven wickets for just 76 runs. Kagiso Rabada took three wickets and Keshav Maharaj and Maphaka each claimed two. Trailing by 421 runs, Pakistan had no choice but to follow on. However, they showed resilience as Azam and Masood recorded their highest opening partnership since December 2022 with Masood reaching an unbeaten 102 late in the day.

Marco Jansen dismissed Azam for 81 just before the close of play. With two days remaining, Pakistan still faces a daunting challenge, needing an additional 208 runs just to level with South Africa. However, South Africa’s lead leaves little hope for the visitors to avoid defeat. This Test match marks South Africa’s final game before they face Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June. Australia secured their place in the final with a 3-1 series win over India, completing their victory in Sydney on Sunday.