Pakistan bowlers defy South Africa’s charge in eventful first day

Pakistan’s Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas led the charge, troubling South Africa’s top order. Shahzad’s twin strikes, along with Abbas’s late breakthrough, ensured Pakistan stayed firmly in contention despite a difficult day with the bat.

from South Africa Dane Paterson and rookie Corbin Bosch starred in the ball earlier in the day. Paterson, thriving at 35, claimed his second successive five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of five for 61. Bosch, making a stunning Test debut, complemented Paterson brilliantly by picking up four wickets for 63 runs.

Pakistan’s innings found brief resistance from Kamran Ghulam, whose counter-attack of 54 off 71 balls injected some life into their batting effort. Ghulam played with intent, scoring boundaries to regain momentum during a Test phase against the South African bowlers. However, his dismissal marked the start of a rapid collapse, with Pakistan losing their last five wickets for just 29 runs.

When South Africa came out to bat, Pakistan’s bowlers struck early. Shahzad removed Dean Elgar and Temba Bavuma in quick succession, while Abbas dismissed Aiden Markram late in the day. Proteas captain Heinrich Klaasen remained unbeaten on 27, accompanied by Rassie van der Dussen, who is on 19.

With a well-grassed pitch offering support to the bowlers, Day 2 promises more action as Pakistan look to capitalize on early advances and South Africa aim to build a significant lead.