Shan Masood and Babar Azam delivered a historic 205-run opening partnership while following on, rewriting records and lifting Pakistan’s spirits in the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Despite South Africa’s commanding position, the standout efforts of Masood and Babar offered hope in an otherwise challenging match for Pakistan.
South Africa Enforces the Follow-On
South Africa enforced the follow-on for the second time in this World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. Previously, they did so against Bangladesh in Chattogram. Pakistan last experienced a follow-on in Southampton during the 2020 series against England. South Africa’s decision showcased their dominance, with a massive first-innings lead of 421 runs—their highest against Pakistan and the sixth-largest in their Test history.
Masood and Babar’s Record Partnership
Masood and Babar’s 205-run stand became the highest opening partnership while following on in Test cricket. They surpassed Graeme Smith and Neil McKenzie’s 204-run opening stand at Lord’s in 2008. Additionally, it marked Pakistan’s highest opening partnership in South Africa and only their second 100-plus opening stand in the country. Remarkably, three of Pakistan’s last four 100-plus opening stands have extended beyond 200 runs.
Masood’s Milestone as Captain
Shan Masood made history as the first Pakistan captain to score a Test century in South Africa. He ended a long-standing record, as Salim Malik fell one run short of the milestone in 1995, and Inzamam-ul-Haq’s 92 in 2007 also left him short of the mark.
Kwena Maphaka Shines on Debut
South Africa introduced 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka as their youngest-ever Test debutant. Maphaka marked his debut with an incredible milestone, dismissing Babar Azam on Day 3 to become South Africa’s youngest Test wicket-taker. His presence on the field adds excitement to South Africa’s pace attack and highlights their future talent.
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Babar’s Unique Streak
Babar Azam displayed consistency with three consecutive fifties in the series, including twin half-centuries in this Test. However, this is the first time in his career that he has failed to convert any of these into centuries. Coincidentally, Babar’s dismissals down the leg side have now occurred three times since 2022, tying him with Saud Shakeel for the most such dismissals by a Pakistani batter in that period.
South Africa’s Commanding Lead
The Proteas’ massive first-innings lead of 421 runs reflected their dominance. This was the fifth-largest first-innings lead in South Africa in the 21st century and one of Pakistan’s worst in Test history. Pakistan’s struggle to curtail South Africa’s scoring further complicated their path to a comeback.
A Glimmer of Hope Amid Challenges
Despite South Africa’s upper hand, the partnership between Masood and Babar provided a glimmer of hope for Pakistan. Their determination and historic performance highlight the resilience of Pakistan’s top order, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
This Test remains a thrilling contest of milestones and resilience, with both sides contributing to an unforgettable game of cricket.
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