Keshav Maharaj’s seven-wicket haul vs Pakistan turned the game around for South Africa as they restricted Pakistan to 333 before steady batting from Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi stabilized the innings. At stumps on Day 2, South Africa reached 185 for 4, trailing by 148 runs, with Stubbs unbeaten on 68 and de Zorzi scoring a composed 55.
Pakistan Collapse After Maharaj’s Magical Spell
Pakistan’s innings crumbled quickly in the morning after Keshav Maharaj’s seven-wicket haul vs Pakistan dismantled the lower order. From 316 for 5, Pakistan lost their final five wickets for just 17 runs. Maharaj’s arm-ball trapped Agha Salman in front before Saud Shakeel fell to a soft edge. Within 18 deliveries, Maharaj ran through the tail, ending with figures of 7 for 102 — his best of the series.
Despite a solid partnership between Agha and Shakeel earlier, Pakistan’s collapse gave South Africa a golden opportunity to gain momentum. The spinners extracted turn, but Maharaj’s precision proved decisive once again.
Stubbs and de Zorzi Build Steadily After Early Jitters
In response, South Africa began cautiously after losing Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton early to Shaheen Shah Afridi. However, Stubbs and de Zorzi rebuilt the innings with remarkable discipline. Their 113-run partnership demonstrated patience and smart shot selection.
Both batters punished loose deliveries, using their feet effectively against Pakistan’s spinners. A crucial moment came when de Zorzi reached his fifty with a six over long-on, followed by Stubbs bringing up his own milestone. The duo’s stand ensured South Africa stayed competitive despite Pakistan’s earlier advantage.
Pakistan Strike Back Late in the Day
Pakistan managed a late fightback through debutant Asif Afridi, who dismissed de Zorzi and Dewald Brevis in quick succession. His left-arm spin provided the breakthrough Pakistan needed to balance the contest. Even then, South Africa’s resilience—anchored by Stubbs—ensured the deficit remained manageable.
With Keshav Maharaj’s seven-wicket haul vs Pakistan setting the tone, South Africa entered Day 3 with renewed belief and control over the game’s tempo.
