During the continued Pakistan vs South Africa, second check match, Pakistan’s Babar Azam opted to barter early morning moisture and potential further bounce, selecting for his line-up to bat first in Rawalpindi. While South Africa was not happy with the choice however Pakistan misplaced early wickets which bossed South Africa’s confidence.
While Pakistan was 22/2 at 14.4 overs attempting to get one other profitable supply, Nortje gave the breakthrough want for the South African staff and it was Markram’s swift catch that truly lifted the spirits of the South African staff in in the present day’s match.
Pakistan have fielded the playing XI as in the first test in Karachi which the hosts won by 7 wickets. The Proteas, on the other hand, have replaced Lungi Ngidi with Wiaan Mulder. After the ongoing test match series, both the teams will face each other in three T20Is to be played on February 11, 13, and 14 at the Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore.
Pakistan is eyeing to end a 17-year wait for a series win against South Africa and leapfrog the Proteas in the rankings in the second Test match ongoing at Rawalpindi.
Pakistan defeated South Africa by seven wickets in the first Test at the National Stadium, Karachi. The hosts are leading the two-match Test series 1-0.
Babar Azam, who captained Pakistan for the first time in Tests, said the win was much needed after they went down heavily in both Tests away to New Zealand in December and January.
“This win was very necessary for our group,” said Azam. “The last series in New Zealand didn’t go very well.
“Yes, these are home conditions but South Africa is a top Test side and beating them was morale-boosting.”
