Dane Paterson’s stellar five-wicket haul rocked Pakistan’s batting lineup on the opening day of the first Test at Centurion. Despite a fighting half-century by Kamran Ghulam and an 81-run stand with Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan were struggling at 209 for 9 by tea. Paterson’s brilliance, supported by Corbin Bosch’s four wickets, left South Africa firmly in control.
Pakistan’s Fightback After Early Struggles
Pakistan’s innings started poorly, with Shan Masood and Saim Ayub failing to capitalize on a strong first hour of bowling from Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. The opening pair displayed grit but eventually succumbed to Paterson’s precision. Masood nicked a wide delivery from debutant Corbin Bosch to Jansen at slip, while Ayub’s defensive approach ended with an outside edge to the slips.
Babar Azam, returning to the side, couldn’t provide the stability Pakistan needed. His tentative prod at a delivery outside off from Paterson resulted in another catch in the slip cordon. Saud Shakeel tried a counter-attacking approach but fell after gloving a hook shot, leaving Pakistan in deeper trouble.
Ghulam and Rizwan’s Resilience
Amid the collapse, Kamran Ghulam and Mohammad Rizwan offered some resistance. Ghulam, playing with determination, reached his half-century while locking horns with Rabada in a fascinating battle. Rabada bowled a fiery spell but remained wicketless, despite testing Ghulam with sharp deliveries and fiery exchanges.
The partnership brought life to Pakistan’s innings, frustrating the South African bowlers. Ghulam edged a delivery to the slips, but Marco Jansen dropped the catch, allowing him to complete a well-deserved fifty. However, the partnership was eventually broken when Ghulam top-edged a slog off Paterson to fine leg, where Rabada took a jubilant catch.
Rizwan fell soon after, edging Bosch to the slips. Despite showing promise, Pakistan’s middle order failed to build on the partnership.
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Late Collapse Before Tea
As tea approached, Pakistan’s lower order tried to stabilize the innings. Salman Ali Agha and Aamer Jamal built a small partnership, nearing the 50-run mark. However, Bosch and Paterson struck again. Jamal chopped an inside edge onto his stumps, and Agha fell to a surprise bouncer from Paterson. Naseem Shah was quickly dismissed, leaving Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad to hold on for the final session.
South Africa’s Dominance with the Ball
South Africa’s dominance began with their disciplined bowling in the morning session. Rabada and Jansen exploited the conditions, creating chances with their impeccable line and movement. However, it was Bosch and Paterson who capitalized on the pressure, breaking Pakistan’s resolve.
Paterson’s five-wicket haul highlighted his skill and consistency, while Bosch impressed on debut with four scalps. Together, they ensured South Africa maintained control throughout the day, dismissing Pakistan’s top and middle order with ease.
What Lies Ahead
Pakistan will hope their tailenders can add crucial runs in the final session. South Africa, however, remain favorites to capitalize on the strong start and push for a commanding position in the Test.
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