Simon Harmer’s triple strike rocked Pakistan early, but Babar Azam’s solid batting kept the hosts in the contest as they ended day three at 94-4, holding a 23-run lead against South Africa in the second Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Wednesday.
Pakistan’s second innings got off to a poor start, with Harmer removing Imam-ul-Haq (9) and skipper Shan Masood (0) in quick succession.
Kagiso Rabada then dismissed Abdullah Shafique (6), leaving the hosts under pressure at 16-3.
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Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel steadied the innings with a crucial stand, but Harmer struck again to dismiss Saud for 11, ending the 44-run partnership.
Mohammad Rizwan then joined Babar at the crease, guiding Pakistan into the lead before stumps. The hosts will resume day four with Babar unbeaten on 49 off 83 balls and Rizwan on 16 off 49.
Earlier, South Africa posted 404 in reply to Pakistan’s 333, thanks to outstanding contributions from Senuran Muthusamy (89*) and Kagiso Rabada (71).
The Proteas recovered from early setbacks and built partnerships throughout the innings, including a 98-run stand for the final wicket.
Debutant Asif Afridi starred for Pakistan, taking 6 for 79.
Noman Ali grabbed two wickets, while Shaheen Afridi and Sajid Khan picked up one each.
For Pakistan, Shan Masood (87), Abdullah Shafique (57), and Saud Shakeel (66) were the main contributors in the first innings.
Keshav Maharaj was the standout bowler for South Africa with 7 for 102, while Harmer took two wickets.
With two days remaining, the Test leans in South Africa’s favor. Pakistan will depend on Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan to extend their lead, while the hosts will target early wickets on day four in an effort to level the series.
