Physical Address

304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Reactions on Twitter: Lockout at Centurion as South Africa, Pakistan trade blows on Day 3 of Christmas Day Test



Day 3 of the Boxing Day test between south africa i Pakistan it unfolded as a thrilling contest, with both teams refusing to give an inch. Set a modest goal of 148, South Africa were in trouble at 27/3 for stumpscourtesy of a fierce spell from the Pakistanis. Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s lower order succumbed to the relentless brilliance of Marco Jansena career-best 6/62 dismantled their second innings and left them with just a slender lead to defend. However, the visitors showed remarkable resilience in the field, striking three times in the final session to keep their hopes alive.

Pakistan’s batting collapse: Struggling knock from Saud Shakeel

The third day, after the first session was washed away due to rain, began with Pakistan resuming at 88/3, hoping to extend their lead significantly on a pitch that was gradually deteriorating. Saud Shakeelcontinuing his good form, he looked determined to anchor the innings. However, Mohammad RizwanJansen’s early dismissal set the tone for a dismal morning for the visitors. Rizwan, trying to counter Jansen’s aggressive short-ball strategy, was bowled for just 13 runs.

That door opened the floodgates as Pakistan’s middle-lower order capitulated under relentless pressure. Jansen’s clever use of the uneven bounce and his ability to extract pace from the surface proved too much for the tailenders. Shakeel fought bravely for his 84, showing immense skill and composure, but found little support at the other end. Pakistan were bowled out for 237, with Jansen’s career-best 6/62 dismantling any hopes of a substantial lead. The innings exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s batting line-up, especially in Test conditions.

Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad’s early strikes send South Africa reeling

South Africa’s 148-run chase began in cloudy conditions, which further aided Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Mohammad Abbas he struck out in his first at-bat, catching Tony de Zorzi with a delivery that came sharply off the seam. Abbas, known for his accuracy, exploited the conditions to perfection, giving Pakistan an ideal start.

Khurram Shahzad then produced a moment of brilliance, discarding Tristan Stubbs with a delivery that spun late and found the outside edge, leaving the batsman stunned. Shahzad continued his fiery spell, targeting the body with short pitched deliveries and finally claiming Ryan Rickelton with a well directed keeper who took the top edge. At stumps, South Africa were in deep trouble at 27/3, and the Pakistanis showed great skill and determination to keep their team in the contest.

Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad disposes of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test: SA vs PAK

Aiden Markram stands firm amid the chaos

Amidst the carnage at the other end, Aiden Markram he stood tall, demonstrating remarkable resilience and composure. His unbeaten 22 was a master class in adaptability as he deftly negotiated the test conditions. Markram’s judgment off stump and his ability to counter the short ball were critical in ensuring South Africa did not completely collapse under pressure.

Although his innings lacked flamboyance, it was rich in substance as he absorbed relentless pressure from Abbas and Shahzad. Recognizing the importance of preserving his port, Markram refrained from any breakout strikes, focusing instead on building a base for pursuit. As the day ended with South Africa requiring 121 runs and Pakistan needing seven wickets, Markram’s role in leading the innings remained pivotal. His ability to anchor the chase amid a crumbling top order will likely define the outcome of this enthralling contest.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal celebrates passionately after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test





Source link

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *