Pakistan Start Strong in First Test Against South Africa with Responsible Batting Display

Lahore – Pakistan got off to a steady start in the first Test against South Africa as part of the two-match Test series being played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore. At lunch on Day 1, the home side reached 107 runs for the loss of one wicket.

After winning the toss, Pakistan captain Shan Masood elected to bat first, citing the importance of taking advantage of home conditions. Opening the innings, Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq walked out to the crease, but Shafique was dismissed early after scoring just 2 runs.

Despite the early setback, Shan Masood joined Imam-ul-Haq at the crease and both batters steadied the innings with a composed partnership. Imam reached his half-century and remained unbeaten on 59 runs, while captain Shan Masood stood firm at 44 not out as the teams headed for the lunch break.

Read more: PCB Plans PSL Season 11 After Ramadan; Possible Addition of Two Teams

Before the match, Shan Masood stated that the team would look to make the most of familiar playing conditions, while South African skipper Aiden Markram said his team was prepared for such challenges and would aim to dismiss Pakistan cheaply.

Pakistan Playing XI:

• Shan Masood (Captain)

• Babar Azam

• Mohammad Rizwan (Wicketkeeper)

• Imam-ul-Haq

• Abdullah Shafique

• Saud Shakeel

• Salman Ali Agha

• Hasan Ali

• Shaheen Afridi

• Nauman Ali

• Sajid Khan

The match continues with Pakistan looking to build a solid first-innings total against a determined South African bowling attack.