Introduction: Pakistan and South Africa – Summary of the first day
The first day of the Test match between Pakistan and South Africa was very interesting. Pakistan kept their batting steady, but some reviews and wickets led to ups and downs in the match. Umpire’s decisions and player reviews made the match more dramatic. In this summary, we will look at the key moments of the first day, the reviews and the performances of the batsmen.
Highlights of the first day:
The start and the first score of Pakistan
Pakistan started their innings well, where Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood completed 50 runs in 9.1 overs. Imam and Shan formed a steady partnership, with Imam-ul-Haq scoring 50 off 65 balls and Shan Masood scoring 50 off 93 balls.
Review decisions and wickets
Review 1 : South Africa took a review when Abdullah Shafiq was given out, but the umpire’s decision remained.
Review 2 : Pakistan took a review on the dismissal of Imam-ul-Haq, which went in their favor.
Review 3 and 4 *: Reviews were taken even when Shan Masood and Babar Azam were dismissed, but Babar Azam’s wicket remained intact.
REVIEW 5: Babar Azam was challenged for another decision, which was given by South Africa, but the umpire’s decision remained.
Line and T-Brake
Pakistan’s score at lunch was 107/1, with Imam on 59 and Shan on 44.
At tea, Pakistan were 199/4 with Rizwan on 28 and Salman on 21.
The performance of the batsmen
Mohammad Rizwan and Agha Salman scored 50 runs in the middle order, which helped to keep the match stable. Rizwan scored 50 off 81 balls (2 x 4, 2 x 6) and Agha Salman scored 50 off 69 balls (2 x 4, 1 x 6).
Pakistan got 20 extras, which can be important for any team in the match.
End: Pakistan’s stable day with some ups and downs.
Pakistan gave a very good performance of their first day, but their momentum was somewhat affected due to some reviews and wickets. The wickets caused some ups and downs in the match, but Rizwan and Salman’s 50-run partnership kept Pakistan in a stable position in the match. If Pakistan keep their batting the same way on Day 2, they can make a good score in the match. After the first day, all eyes are now on the second day. This is where Pakistan needs to step up their game.
