Rawalpindi – South Africa’s spirited fightback on Day 3 of the second Test against Pakistan turned what began as a precarious morning into a day of dominance and renewed belief. From a fragile position early on, the Proteas surged to a commanding 71-run first-innings lead before their bowlers, led by Simon Harmer, struck vital blows to leave Pakistan reeling at 94 for 4 by stumps — just 23 runs ahead with two days remaining.
Lower Order Heroics: Muthusamy and Rabada Rewrite the Script
It was a day that belonged to Senuran Muthusamy and Kagiso Rabada. The pair produced one of South Africa’s most memorable lower-order recoveries in recent years, transforming a collapsing innings into a statement of defiance.
When debutant Asif Afridi, at 38 years and 301 days the oldest bowler ever to claim a five-wicket haul on Test debut, had reduced South Africa to 221 for 7, Pakistan looked poised to seize the advantage. Instead, Muthusamy (89* off 155 balls) and Rabada (71 off 75 balls) turned the match on its head with a thrilling 98-run last-wicket partnership.
Muthusamy anchored the innings with poise and purpose, finding key partners down the order — first with Keshav Maharaj (30) in a 71-run ninth-wicket stand and then with Rabada in a counterattacking finale that left Pakistan stunned. Rabada’s batting was pure theatre: four sixes, four boundaries, and a flurry of audacious strokes that showcased both timing and power. His first Test half-century was one of class and intent, highlighted by a majestic punch over long-on off Shaheen Shah Afridi and crisp drives through cover.
Their efforts carried South Africa to 404 all out, securing a valuable 71-run lead that few had foreseen after the morning’s early wickets.
Asif Afridi’s Dream Debut
For Pakistan, Asif Afridi’s six-wicket haul (6 for 79 in 34.3 overs) was a silver lining in an otherwise frustrating day. The left-arm spinner used the dry Rawalpindi surface superbly, claiming key scalps including Kyle Verreynne, Tristan Stubbs (76), and Simon Harmer, to become the oldest debutant in Test history to take a five-for — surpassing England’s Charles Marriott’s 91-year-old record.
Yet, by the time Rabada holed out just before tea, Pakistan’s early dominance had evaporated, leaving their top order to face an inspired South African attack under pressure.
Harmer and Rabada Rattle Pakistan’s Top Order
Pakistan’s second innings began in chaos. Harmer and Rabada combined to rip through the top order with precision and control on a pitch offering sharp turn and variable bounce.
Harmer struck twice in quick succession, trapping Imam-ul-Haq (9) and captain Shan Masood (0) lbw with arm balls that skidded off the surface. Rabada followed up by removing Abdullah Shafique (6), caught smartly by Marco Jansen at third slip. At 16 for 3, Pakistan’s hopes hung by a thread.
A brief resistance came through Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel, who added 44 gritty runs before Harmer struck again — Shakeel edging a looping delivery to Aiden Markram at slip. Pakistan were 60 for 4 and still trailing when Babar, calm and composed, took control alongside Mohammad Rizwan.
Babar Holds the Fort
In a day of crumbling wickets, Babar Azam stood tall. His unbeaten 49 off 83 balls featured seven boundaries — a display of class and composure amid chaos. Driving elegantly through the covers and cutting sharply against the spin, the Pakistan captain steadied the innings in partnership with Rizwan (16*), ensuring the hosts survived to stumps without further damage.
Still, with only 23 runs in hand and the Proteas bowlers in full rhythm, Pakistan face an uphill battle heading into Day 4.
A Match Poised for a Classic Finish
South Africa’s resurgence — powered by lower-order grit and incisive spin — has set the stage for a compelling finish in Rawalpindi. Harmer’s figures of 3 for 26 and Rabada’s all-round brilliance have tilted momentum firmly toward the visitors, who are chasing a series-levelling win after Pakistan’s victory in Lahore.
With two days remaining and Babar holding the last line of defence, the Rawalpindi Test promises a tense battle of patience, skill, and endurance — a fitting climax to an enthralling series.
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