Lahore, October 14: Pakistan’s batting lineup faltered on the third day of the Lahore Test against South Africa, losing half of their side in the second innings after building a first-innings lead. Despite a solid start to the match, the hosts now face pressure to set a defendable target.
After dismissing South Africa for 269 in their first innings, Pakistan began their second innings with a lead of 109 runs. However, the team stumbled quickly as wickets fell at regular intervals against disciplined South African bowling.
Opener Imam-ul-Haq, who had earlier scored an impressive 93 in the first innings, was the first to fall. Attempting to step out and defend off-spinner Simon Harmer, he missed the line and was stumped early in his innings. Skipper Shan Masood, who had scored 76 in the first innings, failed to repeat his form, adding only 7 runs before being dismissed.
Abdullah Shafique, looking in good touch, managed 41 runs before edging one to the slips at a total of 64. Pakistan’s middle order also faltered — star batter Babar Azam scored 42 before being dismissed at 119, and Saud Shakeel’s brief resistance ended at 38 after he was caught at the boundary trying to loft a delivery.
At tea on Day 3, Pakistan were struggling with half their side back in the pavilion, unable to build on their early advantage.
Earlier in the day, South Africa resumed their first innings at 216 for 6, still trailing Pakistan’s total of 378. Tony de Zorzi, who started the day unbeaten on 81, went on to complete his century before being dismissed for 104 after playing a mistimed lofted shot off Nauman Ali. Senuran Muthusamy was dismissed for 11, while Kagiso Rabada failed to open his account, falling to Sajid Khan.
Nauman Ali was the standout performer with the ball for Pakistan, claiming 6 wickets, while Sajid Khan took 3 and Salman Ali Agha chipped in with 1 wicket.
In Pakistan’s first innings, Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Ali Agha had both top-scored with 93 runs apiece. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan added a valuable 75, while captain Shan Masood contributed 76 to guide Pakistan to a strong total of 378.
