Pakistan Strong Start in 2nd Test vs South Africa 2025

 

🌟 Introduction

The opening day of the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium delivered an action-packed performance from both sides. Pakistan displayed resilience and composure to reach 259/5 at stumps, led by crucial innings from Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique. South Africa, despite creating several chances, failed to capitalize due to inconsistent fielding and dropped catches. With the pitch already showing early signs of wear, Day 2 promises a gripping continuation of this exciting Test encounter.

Early Momentum: Pakistan Elect to Bat

Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat on the Rawalpindi surface. They got off to a decent start before Shafique and Masood combined to steady the innings after early hiccups. Shafique’s 57-run knock came off a patient 112 balls, showing solid technique. Masood topped the chart with 87, building his innings on confidence and strong footwork against pace and spin.  The partnership laid the platform for Pakistan in this Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025.

Middle-Order and Key Partnerships

Following the departure of both their top order batters, Pakistan’s middle order managed to hold firm. Saud Shakeel remained unbeaten on 42 from 105 balls, while Salman Agha ended the day on 10* from 25.  The healthy wicket-partnerships and careful batting helped Pakistan reach a respectable total, putting them in a favourable position in the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025.

South Africa’s Bowling & Fielding Woes

While the bowling from South Africa was disciplined, they paid the price for dropped chances. Keshav Maharaj picked up 2 wickets for 63 runs while spin partner Simon Harmer also claimed 2 for 75, but South Africa’s fielding lapses allowed Pakistan’s batters to settle. On a pitch expected to favour spin, such opportunities missed can make a big difference in the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025.

Pitch Conditions & What Lies Ahead

Although the pitch in the early session looked batting-friendly, by stumps there were visible signs of wear, and some turn was evident in the later overs Pakistan will aim to build on their foundation on Day 2, possibly looking for a first-innings lead. Meanwhile, South Africa will try to strike early and use the spin attack to claw their way back in the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025.

Players Who Stood Out

• Shan Masood – 87: Showed class and composure.

• Abdullah Shafique – 57: Started patiently and built a solid foundation.

• Saud Shakeel – 42*: Anchored the tail-end batting.

• Keshav Maharaj – 2/63: Got key wickets though lacked support.

• Simon Harmer – 2/75: Steady leg-spin threat for South Africa.

Conclusion

Day 1 of the Pakistan vs South Africa 2nd Test 2025 ended with Pakistan in a strong position, but still much to play for. With their batters putting up a solid effort and the bowlers waiting to exploit the turning track, Pakistan hold the edge — provided they maintain discipline. South Africa, meanwhile, must convert their chances and start Day 2 with purpose if they are to bounce back. The next day promises to shape this contest even further.