RAWALPINDI: South Africa seized firm control on Day 2 of the second Test against Pakistan at Rawalpindi, powered by a magnificent century from opener Aiden Markram and some sharp spin bowling from Keshav Maharaj.
Markram's Marathon Innings Steals the Show
Right-handed batsman Aiden Markram played what can only be described as a textbook Test innings, showcasing immense patience and skill. He battled through the Pakistani bowling attack to bring up a well-deserved century, his knock forming the bedrock of South Africa's first innings total.
Markram's ability to find the gaps and rotate the strike kept the scoreboard ticking, while his disciplined shot selection frustrated the Pakistani bowlers on a pitch that offered some assistance.
Maharaj Weaves Spin Web Around Pakistani Batters
After South Africa posted a competitive total, left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj took center stage. He ripped through the Pakistani top order, exploiting the conditions perfectly. His variations in flight and turn proved too much to handle for several key Pakistani batsmen.
Maharaj's crucial breakthroughs have put Pakistan on the back foot, leaving them with a mountain to climb to get back into the match.
Pakistan's Bowling Effort and Batting Response
For Pakistan, the bowling unit had to toil hard on a hot day. Pacer Asif Afridi managed to pick up a couple of wickets, providing some moments of hope for the home side. However, the inability to break the Markram-led resistance consistently meant South Africa built a formidable position.
In reply, Pakistan's batting lineup has looked shaky against the quality of the South African attack, particularly Maharaj. They will need a monumental effort from their remaining batsmen on Day 3 to avoid a significant first-innings deficit.
Match Context and What's Next
This second and final Test is crucial for both teams in the context of the World Test Championship. With the series poised after the first match, a win here is paramount. The action at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium promises more drama as the match progresses.
Day 3 Outlook: All eyes will be on whether Pakistan can stage a fightback or if South Africa will continue to tighten their grip on the match and push for a series-winning victory.
