Captain Shan Masood Leads Pakistan’s Fightback in Second Test Against South Africa

Captain Shan Masood led a resilient Pakistan fightback with a stunning 102 not out, while Babar Azam’s steady 81 set the tone for Pakistan’s recovery after being forced to follow on in the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town, on Sunday.

After conceding a massive 421-run first-innings deficit, Pakistan resumed their second innings with a solid opening stand between Masood and Babar. The pair shared a 205-run partnership, the highest for Pakistan in Tests against South Africa, as they batted with confidence and determination to keep their team in the contest. Their partnership even exceeded Pakistan’s first-innings total of 194, a key moment that led South African captain Temba Bavuma to enforce the follow-on.

Masood, who completed his sixth Test century, and Babar, with his third consecutive half-century in the series, were in fine form. Babar’s dismissal for 81—caught in the gully off Marco Jansen—came just 14 minutes before the close of play, ending a solid innings in which he faced 127 balls.

Babar had a strong start in the first innings, scoring 58 before Pakistan lost a key wicket with his dismissal. Earlier in the match, he put on a 98-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan (46), but their collaboration could not prevent a collapse. After Pakistan resumed at 64 for three, Babar and Rizwan confidently saw off the opening bowlers, Kagiso Rabada and Jansen, but Babar’s unlucky dismissal for 81 added to Pakistan’s struggles.

Rizwan also fell to Wiaan Mulder after attempting an aggressive shot, and the remaining batsmen failed to make an impact, leaving Pakistan at a significant disadvantage.

South Africa’s frustration was evident as tensions flared on the field. After a firm shot from Babar Azam was struck back at Mulder, the bowler threw the ball at Babar, who was at the crease on 56. The incident led to a brief exchange of words, involving wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne, before the umpires intervened to restore calm.

Despite this, Masood’s century was a crucial moment for Pakistan. His knock of 102 not out from 159 balls, featuring 14 boundaries, showed the maturity and resilience needed to battle on despite South Africa’s dominant first innings.

As Pakistan closed the third day at 213 for one, they were still 208 runs short of making South Africa bat again. Masood and Babar’s efforts, however, signaled Pakistan’s fightback on a pitch that had previously seen South Africa score 615 in their first innings. With the partnership of Masood and Babar offering hope for the Pakistan side, the fourth day will be crucial in determining the outcome of the match.

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