(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
In Lahore, Pakistan’s test debut against South Africa finished strong after the first day. The hosts built a solid 313 runs for five wickets, setting a comfortable platform for the rest of the match.
Imam‑ul‑Haq and skipper Shan Masood delivered the key batting performances. Ahmed, who had struggled to find form earlier in the series, was dismissed for only two runs by Kagiso Rabada. From that low point, Imam and Masood shared a remarkable 161‑run partnership, guiding Pakistan’s score from a shaky start to a solid 313/5.
Mohammed Rizwan and Salman Agha anchored the later stages of the day. Rizwan, unbeaten on 62, and Agha, on 52, added a 114‑run fifth‑wicket stand, pushing Pakistan past the 300‑run threshold. Their steadiness allowed the team to claim a comfortable first‑day lead.
The South African bowlers struggled to break the Pakistani batting rhythm. Delayed wicket by a quick wicket, save the two outside the range; the Pakistani leaders continued to press. In the half‑overs, Babar Azam, who has faced criticism for slow scoring, managed only 23 runs in 48 balls, before being stopped through the ropes by Simon Harmer. The dawn of their day was cut short for other bowlers as two early wickets dropped, with Saud Shakeel falling for a golden duck to Senuran Muthusamy.
The most unforgettable highlights were the 3,000‑run milestones for the two senior bowlers—Salman Agha hit his 3,014th international run, and Masood reached 3,001. Both surpassing the 3,000‑run mark marks a milestone in a long international career.
Pakistan, who won the toss, chose to bat first. The day’s performances laid a platform that could see Pakistan claim a win, putting them in a better position for the rest of the Test series. The concerted effort from Imam‑ul‑Haq and Shan Masood assures Pakistan’s batting depth, a key factor as the series continues.
Source: aninews
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