The thrilling third day of the Lahore Test between Pakistan and South Africa ended with Pakistan needing eight wickets to win. South Africa is chasing a target of 277 runs but has scored only 51 for the loss of two wickets so far. Ryan Rickelton is batting on 29 and Tony de Zorzi on 16 at the close of play at Gaddafi Stadium.
Earlier, Pakistan’s second innings collapsed for 167 runs, setting South Africa a challenging target of 277. In the first innings, Pakistan scored 378 runs, while South Africa managed 269. Pakistani spinners Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan took six and three wickets respectively in South Africa’s first innings.
Pakistan began their second innings with a 109-run lead, but early wickets fell quickly. Imam-ul-Haq and Shan Masood were dismissed for zero and seven runs. Abdullah Shafiq scored 41 before getting out, and captain Babar Azam added 42 runs before losing his wicket.
Read more: Pakistan’s spin attack strikes hard, South Africa bowled out for 269
Other notable contributions came from Saud Shakeel with 38 runs and Nauman Ali with 11 runs. However, Pakistan lost their last five wickets for just 17 runs, ending their innings at 167 runs. South Africa’s Senuran Muthusamy shined with five wickets in the second innings, adding to his six wickets from the first innings.
South Africa began Day 3 on 216 for six wickets and saw some crucial wickets fall as the day progressed. Tony de Zorzi completed a patient century but was caught at 102 runs. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Nauman Ali, Shahin Afridi, and Sajid Khan, continue to fight hard to defend the target and secure victory. The match promises an exciting finish on Day 4.