The first Test between Pakistan and South Africa is approaching a thrilling finish in Centurion. Despite handing a lowly target of 148 runs to South Africa, Pakistan put on a show with the bowl on Day 3 to set up a thrilling scenario for the final day. South Africa will enter the fourth day needing just 121 runs to win, while Pakistan will require seven wickets to secure victory.
Rain played its part on Day 3 of the Centurion Test, leading to intermittent delays, but the action that unfolded between the showers was riveting.
Despite rain interruptions, Pakistan added 51 crucial runs for their last three wickets across both innings, taking their second-innings total to 237. Saud Shakeel played an instrumental role, anchoring the innings with a brilliant 84-run knock displaying both calm and class. Babar Azam, after ending a two-year wait for a Test half-century, fell to Marco Jansen for a well-made 50. Jansen's five-wicket haul (5/86) proved crucial as Pakistan squandered a promising position by losing wickets in quick succession.
The South African chase began under immense pressure as Pakistan's bowlers launched a fiery assault. Veteran Mohammad Abbas spearheaded the attack, making the new ball swing and seam effectively. He trapped Tony de Zorzi (1) and Tristan Stubbs (1) leg-before, while Khurram Shahzad joined the fray, dismissing Ryan Rickelton (0) for a duck.
By the close of play, South Africa were reeling at 27/3, with Aiden Markram unbeaten on 22 and captain Temba Bavuma yet to score. Abbas, with figures of 2/3 from four overs, proved exceptionally effective, supported well by Shahzad. Pakistan's sharp fielding and two successful DRS reviews further compounded South Africa's woes. Markram's composure will be crucial on Day 4 as the pitch, offering variable bounce, continues to assist the bowlers.
Earlier, Marco Jansen delivered a fiery spell, dismantling the heart of the Pakistan batting order. He received valuable support from Kagiso Rabada, who also claimed two wickets for 37 runs. Despite Pakistan's resilience, they were vulnerable to loose shots, contributing to their setbacks. With 112 runs required and seven wickets remaining, South Africa holds a slight advantage. However, Pakistan's disciplined bowling has kept them firmly in the contest. The potential for an intense final day is high as both teams strive for victory in this gripping Test match.
South Africa will enter Day 4 with a big goal in mind, which is too secure a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final. A victory in this series opener would make them the first team to clinch a place in the coveted final.