Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s 205-run partnership keeps Pakistan alive in the second test, trailing South Africa by 208

Pakistan’s valiant fightback in the second Test against South Africa continues, as openers Babar Azam and Shan Masood produced a determined 205-run partnership on day three, keeping their side in the contest after being forced to follow-on at Newlands.

With South Africa posting a massive first innings total of 615, thanks to Rickelton’s epic 259 and Bavuma’s 109, Pakistan’s task looked almost insurmountable after being bowled out for just 194 in their first innings. This left them trailing by a daunting 421 runs, forcing the Proteas to enforce the follow-on.

Starting their second innings at 64-3, Pakistan had an uphill struggle ahead, with South Africa poised to increase their dominance. However, Azam and Masood stepped up to deliver an inspiring performance. By the end of the day, Masood was unbeaten on 102 and seemed determined to take his team as far as possible. Azam, having made a solid 81, was dismissed just before the close by Marco Jansen, but his efforts in the partnership were invaluable.

Pakistan’s resistance began earlier in the day when Azam and Mohammad Rizwan had shared a promising stand, with Rizwan making 46. But the visitors’ fortunes quickly declined as the wickets fell in rapid succession. Azam’s departure triggered a collapse, with South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada taking three wickets and Keshav Maharaj and Kwena Maphaka each claiming two.

Despite the setbacks, Pakistan’s fightback in their second innings was nothing short of impressive. Their task now, however, remains monumental—trailing by 208 runs with two days of play left, Pakistan will need another day of strong batting to level the scores or, at the very least, avoid a loss.

Masood’s century is his first in Test cricket since December 2022, and his partnership with Azam brings hope to the Pakistan camp. The duo’s resistance has helped the team recover from an otherwise devastating situation. But with the clock ticking down on this Test match, Pakistan still faces a steep challenge. If they are to force a draw, or even a victory, they must continue their determined fight and bat through the remaining sessions.

The game’s significance is heightened as South Africa prepares for their final Test match before heading into the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s in June. Australia’s 3-1 series win over India confirmed their place in the final, a challenge that South Africa will need to be fully focused on once this Test concludes.