Pakistan Dominates Day 1 Against South Africa, Masood's 87 Leads Strong Showing
Pakistan put up a strong showing on the opening day of the second Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi. Led by captain Shan Masood's 87, Pakistan scored 259-5, with Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha set to resume batting on the second day.
Pakistan's innings was marked by both resilience and missed opportunities for South Africa. Captain Shan Masood top-scored with a valiant 87, despite being dropped on 71. Babar Azam, however, continued his century drought, dismissed for 16, stretching his run to 29 innings without a century.
Pakistan's team selection saw a significant change with the inclusion of a third spinner, 38-year-old left-armer Asif Afridi, in place of fast bowler Hasan Ali. Afridi became the second oldest Pakistani Test debutant. He joined the experienced duo of Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha, who will continue batting on the second day.
South Africa's bowling was led by Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer, who took two wickets each. Maharaj finished with figures of 2-63, while Harmer took 2-75. However, South Africa's fielding was sloppy, dropping five catches, which allowed Pakistan to amass a substantial total.
Pakistan's strong batting performance on the opening day has put them in a commanding position. With Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha at the crease, Pakistan will look to build on their total and secure a 2-0 series win. South Africa, meanwhile, will need to improve their fielding and bowling strategies to challenge Pakistan's dominance.
