Pakistan finds their back against the wall as they were reduced to 33 for 4 at the end of Day 4. After bowling out South Africa for a small total in the first innings the top order failed miserable. Imran Butt couldn’t make a mark in his fist Test innings as he went for just 9. Babar Azam on his return also went early as he was trapped infront of the wicket by Keshav Maharaj. Shaheen was clean bowled by Nortje.
Earlier in the day, South Africa won the toss and captain Quinton de Kock had no hesitation to bat first. Babar Azam also said that he wanted to bat first on this wicket but now will try to restrict South Africa to a low score. Pakistan handed Test caps to Imran Butt and left-arm spinner Nauman Ali.
South African batsmen started briskly as Hasan Ali wasn’t able to control his line and length with the new ball and went for 31 runs in his first 5 overs. Aiden Markram was dismissed by Shaheen as debutant Imran Butt grabbed a great catch in slips. Nauman Ali had to be introduced inside 10 overs to stem the flow of runs.
Rassie Van der Dussen looked good before a mix up in the middle cost him his wicket. Dean Elgar and Faf du Plessis added 45 before he was undone by Yasir Shah. Dean Elgar followed soon trying to drive Nauman through covers. After this, no batsmen was able to settle down and Proteas fell like a house of cards.
George Linde made 35 while Kagiso Rabada showed some resistance as he added 21 precious runs in the end. Spinners Nauman Ali and Yasir Shah bagged five wickets among them. Shaheen Shah was impressive and picked two. Hasan Ali who was expensive in the start came back well and dismissed George Linde who was looking at ease.
Pakistan still trail by 187 runs with Azhar Ali and Fawad Alam on the crease. Big runs are needed from both senior pros. On the other hand South Africa will try to capitalise on the advantage and finish Pakistan off.
