South Africa tightened their grip on the second Test in Rawalpindi as Pakistan stumbled under pressure late on the third day. With Simon Harmer’s spin magic dismantling Pakistan’s top order, the visitors moved within reach of a series-levelling win in the two-match contest. The home side now face an uphill task to save the game, relying heavily on captain Babar Azam and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan to steer them through the crisis.
Harmer’s Spin Turns the Game
Simon Harmer produced a brilliant spell that left Pakistan reeling at 94 for four by stumps. The South African off-spinner claimed three crucial wickets for just 26 runs, exploiting the sharp turn and uneven bounce on a wearing pitch. His quick breakthroughs tilted the match firmly in South Africa’s favor as Pakistan held a slim lead of only 23 runs with two full days left.
Harmer struck early, removing openers Imam-ul-Haq for nine and Shan Masood for a duck. Both fell in quick succession, leaving Pakistan stunned at 16 for two. Kagiso Rabada then joined the attack, sending Abdullah Shafique back to the pavilion for six.
When Harmer returned for his second spell, he dismissed Saud Shakeel for 11, breaking a 44-run partnership that had offered brief resistance. The hosts’ hopes now rest solely on Babar Azam, who remains unbeaten on 49, alongside Mohammad Rizwan on 16.
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South Africa Build Dominant Lead
Earlier, South Africa’s lower order showed resilience and determination, transforming a shaky position into a commanding one. Senuran Muthusamy played a memorable innings, remaining unbeaten on 89 — his highest Test score. Supported by Kagiso Rabada’s aggressive 71, the duo lifted South Africa from 221 for seven to a total of 404.
The visitors’ innings gave them a vital 71-run lead after Pakistan’s first-innings 333. Their last two wickets added a massive 169 runs, frustrating Pakistan’s bowlers and changing the complexion of the match.
Asif Afridi’s Historic Debut
Despite the setback, debutant Asif Afridi emerged as Pakistan’s standout performer. The 38-year-old left-arm spinner became the oldest debutant to claim a five-wicket haul in Test history. He finished with impressive figures of six for 79, surpassing England’s Charles Marriott, who held the record since 1933.
Asif’s early morning spell had South Africa in deep trouble. He dismissed Kyle Verreynne caught behind for 10 and trapped Tristan Stubbs leg-before for 76 after a long vigil. His sharp turn and control troubled every batter, and he continued his fine form by removing Simon Harmer for two.
However, his momentum faded when Pakistan opted for the second new ball — a decision that backfired. Muthusamy and Rabada capitalized on the change, counterattacking with a mix of patience and power to rebuild South Africa’s innings.
Muthusamy and Rabada Turn the Tide
Muthusamy’s innings was an example of composure under pressure. He anchored the tail-end partnerships superbly, adding 71 runs for the ninth wicket with Keshav Maharaj, who contributed 30, and another 98 runs for the final wicket with Rabada.
Rabada’s 71 was his best Test score, featuring four sixes and four boundaries. His aggressive approach took the attack to Pakistan’s bowlers and stretched the lead beyond Pakistan’s comfort zone. Together, Muthusamy and Rabada not only stabilized the innings but also shifted the momentum in South Africa’s favor.
Pitch Favors Spin
The Rawalpindi pitch continued to assist spin, making batting increasingly difficult as cracks widened under the afternoon sun. Both teams’ spinners took advantage, but South Africa’s bowlers held a clear edge. Keshav Maharaj, who claimed seven wickets in Pakistan’s first innings, again extracted sharp turn and bounce, complementing Harmer’s control from the other end.
The pitch’s unpredictable behavior now poses a serious challenge for Pakistan’s remaining batters. With the ball gripping and turning, every run has become a battle. Babar Azam’s ability to adapt and Rizwan’s composure will be crucial if Pakistan are to avoid a collapse.
Records and Milestones
Asif Afridi’s record-breaking debut was a rare highlight for Pakistan. At 38 years and 301 days, his six-wicket haul etched his name in cricket history. His accuracy and spin variations mirrored the brilliance of South Africa’s own left-arm spinner, Maharaj, making the duel between the two one of the match’s defining features.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s dominance with both bat and ball showcased their determination to bounce back after losing the first Test in Lahore by 93 runs. Muthusamy’s consistency and Rabada’s all-round performance demonstrated the depth of their squad and their adaptability to subcontinent conditions.
Pressure on Pakistan
With two days remaining, Pakistan’s hopes of sealing the series now rest on their middle order. The hosts must bat time, protect their wickets, and build a substantial target. Babar Azam’s unbeaten 49 remains the key. His ability to anchor long innings has saved Pakistan in the past, but the task ahead looks daunting.
South Africa, on the other hand, will aim to wrap up the innings quickly and chase a modest target on a pitch that increasingly favors spin. With Harmer and Maharaj in fine form, the visitors have every reason to believe a series-levelling victory is within reach.
As the fourth day dawns, all eyes will be on Babar and Rizwan — Pakistan’s last line of defense against a determined South African side closing in on a comeback win in Rawalpindi.
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