Pakistan’s top order fired in unison as Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha led the hosts to a commanding 313/5 at stumps on the opening day of the first Test against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday.
On a day that marked the start of a new World Test Championship cycle, Pakistan made the most of favourable batting conditions before a late fightback from the Proteas spinners.
Imam And Shan Anchor Pakistan Recovery
After losing Abdullah Shafique in the first over to Kagiso Rabada for just two runs, Imam-ul-Haq and skipper Shan Masood took charge with a gritty 161-run stand for the second wicket.
Playing his first Test since December 2023, Imam looked assured on his return, compiling 93 off 153 balls with seven fours and a six before falling just seven short of a century. Shan, too, appeared composed throughout his 76 off 147 balls, laced with nine boundaries and a six.
Both, however, fell in quick succession — Shan trapped leg-before by off-spinner Prenelan Subrayen and Imam caught off Senuran Muthusamy — as Pakistan slipped from 163/1 to 190/4 before tea.
South Africa’s Spin Trio Struggle For Breakthroughs
In the absence of Keshav Maharaj, South Africa played three spinners — Subrayen, Muthusamy and Simon Harmer — in a rare move for the visitors in Asia. But despite showing moments of control, they struggled for consistency and penetration.
We created chances, we didn’t go away: In the subcontinent, you need a bit of luck — a drag-on, a nick, or an umpire’s call. On another day, things might’ve gone our way.
Harmer, who dismissed local favourite Babar Azam for 23, added that fielding lapses cost South Africa momentum. “Nobody means to drop catches. It’s a split-second reaction. It was a game of cat and mouse — they were sweeping, paddling, trying to manipulate the field,” he said.
Rizwan And Salman Lead Late Charge
Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan (62* off 107) and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha (52* off 83) stabilised Pakistan’s innings with an unbroken 114-run stand for the sixth wicket, frustrating the visitors in the final session.
Rizwan played with characteristic composure, hitting two fours and two sixes, while Salman’s fluency on both sides of the wicket gave Pakistan a strong finish at stumps.
For South Africa, Muthusamy was the most successful bowler with 2/101, while Harmer and Subrayen picked up one wicket each.
Harmer Ready For Day 2 Challenge
Despite Pakistan’s strong position, Harmer believes there’s still plenty in the surface for the spinners.
It boils down to your skill and preparation. You know it’s going to turn, you understand your opponent, and it’s about staying confident because the pressure will keep growing.
Brief Scores: Pakistan 313/5 in 90 overs: Imam-ul-Haq 93, Shan Masood 76, Mohammad Rizwan 62*, Salman Ali Agha 52*; Senuran Muthusamy 2/101.
