Morning Session: South Africa Fight Back
The day began with Pakistan resuming their innings at a precarious 120/5, trailing South Africa’s first-innings total of 320 by 200 runs. The South African pacers wasted no time in asserting their dominance. Kagiso Rabada, leading the charge, struck early to dismiss the overnight batter Saud Shakeel for 28.
However, Pakistan’s lower-middle order refused to back down. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan played a gritty knock, steering Pakistan out of immediate trouble. Alongside all-rounder Hasan Ali, the duo added a crucial 65 runs for the seventh wicket. Rizwan’s 45 was a testament to his resilience against a relentless South African pace attack.
South Africa, though, had the final say before lunch. Anrich Nortje delivered a fiery spell, claiming two quick wickets to bowl Pakistan out for 245, leaving the visitors trailing by 75 runs.
Afternoon Session: Pakistan’s Spin Web
With a handy lead in hand, South Africa began their second innings confidently. Openers Dean Elgar and Aiden Markram looked solid, adding 60 runs for the first wicket. But Pakistan’s spinners had other plans.
Abrar Ahmed, the young leg-spinner, turned the game on its head with a remarkable spell of bowling. In quick succession, he removed Markram and Rassie van der Dussen, leaving South Africa wobbling at 85/3. The pressure mounted further when Babar Azam introduced part-time spinner Saud Shakeel, who struck immediately to send Temba Bavuma back to the pavilion.
At tea, South Africa found themselves at 150/4, their lead stretched to 225 but their batting depth under scrutiny.
Evening Session: A Nail-Biting Finale Looms
The final session of the day saw Pakistan clawing their way back into the match. Abrar continued to weave his magic, picking up two more wickets, including the prized scalp of Quinton de Kock, who fell for a counterattacking 38.
With the South African tail exposed, Pakistan’s bowlers tightened the screws. Hasan Ali’s reverse swing proved invaluable, and the Proteas were eventually bowled out for 215. Abrar finished with impressive figures of 4/62, showcasing his growing stature in international cricket.
Chasing a target of 291, Pakistan had a tricky 12-over period to survive before stumps. Openers Abdullah Shafique and Imam-ul-Haq managed to negotiate the new ball without losing their wickets, guiding Pakistan to 25/0 at the close of play.
Looking Ahead: A Battle of Nerves on Day 4
As the match heads into Day 4, all three results remain possible. South Africa’s bowlers will look to exploit the early morning conditions, while Pakistan’s batters will aim to build partnerships and inch closer to the target.
This Test has been a perfect blend of skill, strategy, and unpredictability. Both teams have showcased their strengths, and cricket fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an enthralling penultimate day.
