Rawalpindi, Pakistan – A dramatic Pakistani collapse engineered by Keshav Maharaj gave South Africa the early advantage on Day 2, before a resilient partnership from Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi put the Proteas firmly back in contention. After a devastating late double-strike from debutant spinner Asif Afridi, South Africa finished the day on 185 for 4, trailing Pakistan's first-innings total by 148 runs.
Maharaj magic triggers Pakistan implosion
Resuming their innings on 259 for 5, Pakistan had hoped to build a commanding lead, but their plans were obliterated by the inspired bowling of Keshav Maharaj. The left-arm spinner, returning from a groin injury, was unplayable on the dry Rawalpindi pitch. He took all five remaining Pakistani wickets for just 17 runs, finishing with a sensational 7 for 102.
The rot began when Maharaj trapped the well-set Salman Ali Agha (45) LBW. From there, the tail-end capitulated in quick succession, with Saud Shakeel (66), Shaheen Afridi, Sajid Khan, and Asif Afridi all falling victim to Maharaj's relentless accuracy and spin.
Stubbs and de Zorzi steady the ship
South Africa's response began shakily, with early wickets falling to the Pakistani pace and spin attack. However, a crucial 113-run third-wicket partnership between Stubbs and de Zorzi steadied the innings and restored the tourists' confidence. The pair displayed immense concentration and patience, blunting the Pakistani spinners for much of the afternoon session.
De Zorzi, fresh off a century in the previous Test, batted positively for his 55 runs off 93 balls. However, it was the determined Stubbs who remained unconquered at the close of play, batting for 184 balls for his 68 not out.
Afridi's dream debut halts Proteas
Just as the match appeared to be swinging in South Africa's favor, Pakistan's new cap Asif Afridi delivered a magnificent late spell. The 38-year-old left-arm spinner, who had waited 16 years for his Test debut, claimed his maiden Test wicket by trapping de Zorzi LBW. In the same over, he dismissed the dangerous Dewald Brevis for a duck, snatching momentum back for Pakistan.
Match in the balance
With Kyle Verreynne joining Stubbs at the crease and the match finely poised, Day 3 promises to be a thrilling contest. Both teams will feel they have a strong chance to seize control of the Test, setting the stage for a compelling next chapter.
