Pakistan Day 1: Shan Masood, Abdullah Shafique Lead Charge Against South Africa
Pakistan ended Day 1 of the 2nd Test against South Africa on 259/5, thanks to Shan Masood's 87 and Abdullah Shafique's 57.
The South Africans' inability to hold onto crucial catches proved costly, allowing Pakistan to gain momentum...
Pakistan captain Shan Masood led from the front with a commanding 87, setting the stage for a strong total as hosts reached 259 for five at stumps on Day 1 of the second Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi.
Masood's batting prowess was a highlight on a day where South Africa struggled in the field, failing to capitalize on opportunities. Despite their sloppy fielding, the Proteas kept Pakistan under pressure with some fine bowling, particularly with the new ball.
At the close, Saud Shakeel was steady on 42 not out, while Salman Agha contributed 10 runs. The Pakistan duo will look to build on their solid start when play resumes on the second morning.
South Africa will likely regret not capitalizing on their chances in the field, as they struggled to dismiss Pakistan's batsmen on a pitch playing true to its form. Pakistan won the toss for the second time in the series and chose to bat, likely aware that the pitch would favor spinners later in the game.
Off-spinner Simon Harmer made a breakthrough, dismissing Imam-ul-Haq with a well-flighted delivery that pitched on leg stump and hit the top of off, showcasing the potential turn on offer. Harmer's wicket, his second, highlighted the challenges batsmen may face as the pitch becomes increasingly affected by spin.
Shan Masood hits his fourth 50+ score in his last 8 innings 👏 pic.twitter.com/gTycSGRHxm
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) October 20, 2025
However, the visitors squandered their advantage, allowing Pakistan to rebuild with Masood and Abdullah Shafique adding 111 runs for the second wicket. Shafique fell to Simon Harmer, caught down the leg side, while Babar Azam followed soon after, caught by Tony de Zorzi at short leg.
The South Africans' inability to hold onto crucial catches proved costly, allowing Pakistan to gain momentum. Masood and Shafique's partnership was crucial in helping Pakistan post a decent total on the board.
Keshav Maharaj, the left-arm spinner, claimed 2-63 and also dismissed Shan Masood, who had been reprieved four times. Masood fell attempting a sweep, top-edging the ball to Marco Jansen at square-leg.
Stumps on Day 1.
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 20, 2025
A day of resilience and fight from #TheProteas Men as Pakistan close the day on 259/5 after 91 overs. 🏏
The battle continues tomorrow! 🇿🇦🔥 pic.twitter.com/4lO0Oq7PqQ
South Africa delayed taking the new ball but ultimately used it to their advantage, with Kagiso Rabada trapping Mohammad Rizwan (19) leg before wicket. This loss marks a setback for South Africa, who were looking to start their World Test Championship title defense on a high note. Pakistan, meanwhile, celebrated a 93-run win in the first test in Lahore last week.
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