South Africa Bounce Back After Early Setback Against Pakistan
Winning the toss and opting to bat, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma didn’t have to wait long for disappointment. Within just 11 runs, his team lost 3 wickets, leaving the innings in disarray. Pakistan captain Shan Masood may have been quietly smiling, thinking it was a “good toss to lose.”
However, Bavuma and opener Ryan Rickelton wiped away Masood’s grin, taking control on the opening day of the second Test in Cape Town. With both scoring centuries, South Africa ended the day strongly at 316/4.
Bavuma, who scored 106 off 179 balls with 9 fours and 2 sixes, was eventually dismissed. Rickelton, however, remained unbeaten on a magnificent 176 off 232 balls, laced with 21 fours and a six. Together, they put up a massive 235-run partnership for the fourth wicket.
After Bavuma’s dismissal, Rickelton paired up with David Bedingham to see out the rest of the day. Pakistan’s bowlers shared the workload, with off-spinner Salman Agha claiming 2 wickets for 55 runs, while Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shehzad picked up one each.
The day wasn’t without setbacks for Pakistan, as all-rounder Saim Ayub was ruled out of the remainder of the Test due to an injury.
Match Summary of Day 1:
South Africa 1st Innings: 316/4 in 80 overs
- Aiden Markram 17, Ryan Rickelton 176*
- Temba Bavuma 106, David Bedingham 4*
Bowling: Salman Agha 2/55, Mohammad Abbas 1/51, Khurram Shehzad 1/69
