Pakistan gained a strong advantage on Day 1 of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 in Lahore, finishing at 313 for 5. Fifties from Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Agha ensured a dominant start against the defending World Test Champions. Despite some fight from South Africa’s spinners, Pakistan took control of the first day’s play.
Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood Build a Solid Foundation
After choosing to bat first in the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025, Pakistan overcame an early blow when Abdullah Shafique fell to Kagiso Rabada. Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood then constructed a brilliant 161-run stand for the second wicket. Imam scored a patient 93, while Masood added 76 with fluent stroke play. Their partnership frustrated South Africa’s attack, which struggled to contain the scoring rate despite using three spinners.
Imam’s composed knock blunted the spin trio of Simon Harmer, Senuran Muthusamy, and Prenelan Subrayen. Even though both batters offered half-chances, South Africa’s fielding lapses cost them dearly. By lunch, Pakistan had moved comfortably to 107 for 1, showing complete control of proceedings.
South Africa Fights Back Before Tea
Momentum briefly shifted after tea as South Africa struck thrice without conceding a run. Muthusamy trapped Imam lbw, Saud Shakeel departed soon after, and Harmer dismissed Babar Azam to leave Pakistan at 199 for 5. However, their hopes of a full collapse faded quickly due to inconsistent bowling and missed catches. Despite using spinners for most of the innings, South Africa could not capitalize on the deteriorating surface.
Rizwan and Agha Rescue Pakistan Late
In the final session of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha combined for an unbeaten 114-run stand that restored Pakistan’s dominance. Rizwan played with confidence, reaching a composed 62*, while Agha supported him with 52*. Their partnership frustrated South Africa once again as the bowlers tired late in the day.
The Lahore pitch, already showing signs of turn, promises a tougher test for both sides in the coming days. Pakistan’s 313 for 5 at stumps reflects their disciplined batting and South Africa’s missed opportunities in the field.
