Newlands: Pakistan mounted a strong response on the third day of the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, as Shan Masood and Babar Azam combined for a record-breaking partnership to put their team in a competitive position after a daunting first-innings deficit.
The pair helped Pakistan recover from a substantial 421-run first innings deficit, reaching 213 for one by the close of play in their follow-on innings. Despite the encouraging partnership, Pakistan still trails by 208 runs, needing another 208 to force South Africa to bat again.
Masood remained unbeaten on 102, marking his sixth Test century, while Babar contributed a solid 81 before being dismissed by Marco Jansen just 14 minutes before the close of play. Their partnership of 205 runs was the highest ever for Pakistan in Tests against South Africa, surpassing their first innings total of 194, which led South African captain Temba Bavuma to enforce the follow-on.
Babar’s innings came after a significant reshuffling in Pakistan’s batting lineup following the injury of Saim Ayub, who was ruled out due to a broken right ankle. Babar, who had scored 58 in the first innings, was forced to open the batting in the second innings. His partnership with Masood showcased resilience and excellent stroke play, frustrating the South African bowlers, who had been dominant in the first innings.
The day also witnessed some heated moments when Wiaan Mulder threw the ball at Babar after a firm return shot while he was on 56. The incident sparked a brief exchange of words involving wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, with the umpires intervening to calm the situation.
Masood’s century came off 159 balls, including 14 boundaries, as he continued to anchor Pakistan’s fightback. His performance, along with Babar’s solid contribution, has given Pakistan hope of further reducing the deficit and challenging South Africa’s total.
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