Pakistan’s Dominance: Abbas and Shahzad Break South Africa’s Chase for 148
Introduction
The first Test match between South Africa and Pakistan at SuperSport Park, Centurion, has been a rollercoaster of emotions. On Day 3, as South Africa set out to chase 148 for victory, Pakistan’s opening bowlers Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad produced an excellent spell of bowling that left South Africa struggling. At the close of Day 3, the hosts were in trouble at 27 for 3, requiring a further 121 runs to clinch a victory that would guarantee their spot in the 2023-25 World Test Championship final.
Abbas and Shahzad Lead the Attack
Abbas and Shahzad’s precision and swing bowling put South Africa on the back foot. Abbas, who had been in excellent form throughout the day, took two crucial wickets, while Shahzad dismissed Ryan Rickelton in a crucial moment of the match.
- Mohammad Abbas’ Impactful Spell: Abbas, known for his immaculate line and length, gave Pakistan the upper hand by dismissing Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs for minimal runs. He bowled four overs for just three runs, dismantling the middle order with his classic swing bowling.
- Khurram Shahzad’s Key Contribution: In addition to Abbas’ brilliance, Shahzad also trapped Ryan Rickelton LBW, adding to the pressure mounting on South Africa’s batting lineup.
Both wickets were reviewed by the South African batsmen, and in all cases, the ball was judged to be on target to hit the stumps, confirming the umpire’s decisions. The match had swung in Pakistan’s favor, with the hosts still needing 121 runs to win.
South Africa’s Struggles: A Fragile Middle Order
At the close of Day 3, Aiden Markram was the only batter left to steady the ship, sitting unbeaten on 22. South Africa’s fragile middle order had been exposed by the relentless pressure of the Pakistani bowlers. With only the tailenders left, the hosts are now faced with the daunting task of chasing down 121 more runs with just seven wickets remaining.
The Dismissals of De Zorzi, Rickelton, and Stubbs
Abbas’ spell left South Africa’s top-order batsmen reeling. De Zorzi, after making just two runs, was dismissed LBW after playing outside the line of a swinging delivery. Although he reviewed the decision, the replays showed the ball was predicted to hit the stumps, leaving De Zorzi with no choice but to depart.
Tristan Stubbs, who made only one run, was the next to go. In his case, the review by South Africa overturned the on-field decision as Abbas’ delivery found his inside edge, leaving him out.
Rickelton followed shortly after, dismissed by Shahzad, leaving South Africa in a perilous situation at 27/3. The Pakistani bowlers were in complete control, and South Africa’s chances of reaching the target seemed slim.
Pakistan’s Fightback in the First Innings
Earlier on Day 3, Pakistan had shown resilience to narrow the gap on the second innings lead. South Africa had started with a 90-run advantage, but Pakistan had their own heroes in Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam, who batted confidently, with both players reaching fifties to give Pakistan a solid foundation.
- Saud Shakeel’s Steady Hand: Shakeel, who had impressed in the previous Test against England, continued his fine form. He was unbeaten on 66 at tea on Day 3, guiding Pakistan’s comeback. He left with the tailenders as the wickets fell rapidly.
- Babar Azam’s Crucial Fifty: Babar Azam, who has been under pressure to regain form, played a vital knock. His half-century was a much-needed return to form, and it helped Pakistan recover after a shaky start. However, his dismissal, caught by Corbin Bosch at the boundary off Jansen, was a turning point.
Marco Jansen’s Impressive Five-Wicket Haul
South Africa’s fast bowler Marco Jansen was the standout performer in the third innings, taking a crucial five-wicket haul to halt Pakistan’s momentum. Jansen’s spell included three wickets in just four overs, bringing South Africa back into the game as they dismissed Pakistan for 212, setting up a challenging target.
- Jansen’s Breakthrough Spell: Jansen bowled a brilliant spell, dismissing Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan cheaply. His third wicket of the day came when Salman Ali Agha played an unnecessary shot and was caught behind.
- Dane Paterson and Kagiso Rabada’s Contributions: Paterson and Rabada also chipped in, with Paterson dismissing Aamer Jamal before tea and Rabada removing Naseem Shah just after.
Pakistan’s innings collapsed from 153/3 to 212/8 as they lost quick wickets. Despite the fightback, South Africa had the upper hand, and the chase for 148 runs became the focal point of the match.
South Africa’s Hopeful Chase: A Nervous Fourth Day Ahead
With Day 3 concluding, South Africa faced an uphill battle to chase down 148 runs. Their fragile middle order had already been exposed by Abbas and Shahzad, and only a few days ago, South Africa’s hopes for qualification to the World Test Championship final were thriving.
With Markram holding the fort at 22 not out and the tailenders needing to step up, South Africa’s chase is far from secure. But if they can overcome the Pakistani bowlers, they will have a shot at their place in the World Test Championship final.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who are the key players in Pakistan’s bowling attack?
Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad have been the standout bowlers for Pakistan in this Test. Abbas has been lethal with his swing bowling, while Shahzad has made key breakthroughs.
2. How did South Africa fare in their first innings?
South Africa had a modest lead of 90 runs in the first innings. Pakistan had initially dominated, but South Africa was able to recover with contributions from key batsmen, including Aiden Markram.
3. What did Pakistan do well in the second innings?
Pakistan showed resilience in the second innings with significant contributions from Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam, who both scored fifties, helping Pakistan set a challenging target for South Africa.
4. What does South Africa need to do to win?
South Africa needs 121 more runs to win the match. Their middle order needs to show resilience and focus to counter Pakistan’s bowling attack, which has been in superb form.
5. Can South Africa qualify for the World Test Championship final?
If South Africa wins this match, they will secure a place in the World Test Championship final in June 2025. However, if they lose, they have another opportunity in the second Test against Pakistan.
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