Pakistan Dominates Day 2 of 2nd Test vs South Africa
The VGOTEL Mobile Presents Bank Alfalah Pakistan vs South Africa Test Series 2025 continued with full intensity at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, and Day 2 of the second Test belonged completely to Pakistan. Under the calm and clever leadership of Shan Masood, Pakistan extended their dominance with bat and ball, leaving South Africa under massive pressure by the tea break.
Pakistan Post 333 Runs in First Innings
Batting first, Pakistan displayed discipline and patience on a pitch offering turn and bounce.
Shan Masood, leading from the front, played a captain’s innings of 87 runs off 176 balls, showing great composure against the South African spinners. His timing and shot selection were a delight to watch.
Saud Shakeel supported brilliantly from the other end with a solid 66 runs off 147 deliveries, ensuring Pakistan reached a respectable total. The partnership between Shan and Saud was the backbone of the innings, frustrating South Africa’s bowling attack for over two sessions.
The lower order couldn’t contribute much, but the total of 333 in 113.4 overs turned out to be a strong one on this surface.
Keshav Maharaj’s Magical Spell
For South Africa, the standout performer was Keshav Maharaj, who bowled tirelessly and picked up an incredible 7 wickets for 102 runs. His variation, flight, and control were top-class, as he continuously challenged Pakistan’s batsmen throughout the innings.
Simon Harmer also chipped in with 2 wickets for 75, while the pacers struggled to make much impact on a pitch favoring spin. Despite Maharaj’s brilliance, Pakistan’s top order ensured that the home side reached a competitive total.
Pakistan Bowlers Shine Before Tea
When South Africa came to bat, Pakistan’s bowlers immediately applied pressure. Shaheen Shah Afridi, with his trademark swing, gave Pakistan an early breakthrough by dismissing Aiden Markram for 32 (62).
Soon after, Sajid Khan, making full use of the spin-friendly conditions, removed Tony de Zorzi, keeping South Africa on the back foot. At Tea on Day 2, the visitors were struggling at 86 for 2 in 34 overs, still trailing by 247 runs in this 2nd Test 2025 encounter.
Captain Shan Masood’s Tactical Brilliance
Shan Masood’s leadership deserves special praise. His sharp field placements and timely bowling changes kept the South African batsmen guessing. He rotated his bowlers wisely — using Shaheen early with the new ball and then bringing Sajid Khan into the attack at just the right time.
The energy and unity of the Pakistani players on the field showed how much confidence this team has gained under Shan’s captaincy. His personal performance with the bat further boosted team morale.
Key Performances of the Day
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Shan Masood – 87 (176)
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Saud Shakeel – 66 (147)
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Keshav Maharaj – 7/102
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Simon Harmer – 2/75
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Shaheen Afridi – 1/15
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Sajid Khan – 1/19
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South Africa trail by 247 runs
These performances summarize why Day 2 Highlights clearly belong to Pakistan.
Pitch Report and Match Conditions
The Rawalpindi pitch has offered assistance to both batters and spinners. The surface slowed down slightly as the day progressed, making run-scoring difficult. However, Pakistan’s disciplined batting and focused bowling have given them the edge.
On Day 3, the conditions are expected to favor spinners even more. Abrar Ahmed and Sajid Khan will likely play a big role as Pakistan aims to bowl South Africa out below 200.
What to Expect on Day 3
South Africa will hope that Tristan Stubbs, unbeaten on 23 (84), can build a partnership with the middle order to reduce the deficit. But with Pakistan’s bowling attack in top form and the pitch starting to turn, it will be a big challenge for the Proteas.
If Pakistan can strike early on the third morning, they’ll be in complete control of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 and push closer to a series victory.
Conclusion
Day 2 of the VGOTEL Mobile Presents Bank Alfalah Pakistan vs South Africa Test Series 2025 proved to be a showcase of Pakistan’s dominance.
From Shan Masood’s commanding knock to Shaheen Afridi’s early breakthrough and Sajid Khan’s spin control, everything went right for the hosts.
South Africa, on the other hand, will need something extraordinary to bounce back. With Pakistan ahead by a huge margin, another home Test win looks well within reach.
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