South Africa recovered from a first-Test loss to dominate Pakistan by eight wickets in the second Test at Rawalpindi, drawing the two-match series 1-1. The visitors secured victory before lunch on the fourth day, showcasing dominant performances from both their batsmen and spin bowlers.
Pakistan Collapse to 138
Chasing a modest target of 68 runs, Pakistan was bowled out cheaply for 138, collapsing from 94-4 overnight in the opening hour of day four. Star batsman Babar Azam, who had kept hopes alive with a 49-run overnight score, was trapped leg before wicket by Simon Harmer shortly after reaching fifty, triggering a lower-order collapse.
The Pakistan lower order continued its struggles, losing the last six wickets for just 44 runs, underscoring concerns over finishing innings under pressure.
Harmer and Maharaj Star
South Africa’s spin duo Simon Harmer and Keshav Maharaj dominated the bowling, taking 17 of Pakistan’s 20 wickets in the match. Harmer took 6-50, including his first five-wicket haul in Test cricket, while Maharaj contributed significantly with two wickets in the second innings, adding to seven wickets he claimed earlier.
Harmer also celebrated a personal milestone, claiming his 1,000th first-class wicket, having built a successful career in county cricket in England.
South Africa Chase Down Target
Chasing 68 runs, South Africa reached the target in 12.3 overs. Captain Aiden Markram scored 42 before being dismissed LBW by Noman Ali just four runs short of victory.
Fellow batsmen Ryan Rickelton (25 not out) and Tony de Zorzi—who did not face a ball—finished the job, securing South Africa’s 11th win in their last 12 Tests, with the only blemish being a 93-run loss in the first Test against Pakistan in Lahore.
Markram praised the team’s resilience and character, saying:
“There were moments where guys had to put their hands up and stand up for the team and they really did that and excelled. It took a lot of confidence and a lot of belief from wins, but when your character’s tested and you come out on the right side, that means quite a bit more.”
Babar Azam’s Century Drought Continues
Despite his efforts, Babar Azam has not scored a century in 15 Tests, since his 161 against New Zealand in Karachi in December 2022. His dismissal by Harmer marked another missed opportunity for Pakistan, who had relied heavily on their star batsman throughout the series.
Pakistan Captain’s Reflection
Pakistan captain Shan Masood acknowledged the team’s shortcomings, particularly in lower-order batting and innings finishing:
“We have a lot to work on, when it comes to lower order batting, finishing innings, and posting competitive totals in the first innings.”
Series Takeaway
South Africa’s comprehensive win demonstrated their dominance in Test cricket, particularly through spin bowling and strategic partnerships, while Pakistan’s recurring issues with the lower order and inability to convert promising starts into substantial scores remain a concern ahead of upcoming fixtures.
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