Pakistan got off to a strong start on day one of the first Test against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium, putting themselves in a commanding position by stumps. The home crowd erupted in excitement throughout the day, particularly when captain Shan Masood was dismissed, and again when the decision was upheld upon review.
Masood and Imam lay the foundation
Masood, alongside Imam-ul-Haq, anchored Pakistan’s innings with a 161-run second-wicket partnership, easing early pressure after Abdullah Shafique’s first-over dismissal. Masood’s belligerent batting, including boundaries on either side of the wicket in the first over, ensured Pakistan maximised scoring on a fresh pitch, while Imam’s patient approach frustrated South Africa’s spinners.
“Shan found he could attack more of them and scored more boundaries. Against the spinners, we had to be patient,” Imam said post-day one.
Their partnership not only put Pakistan in a strong position but also delayed the crowd’s anticipation to see star batter Babar Azam in action, keeping the excitement simmering until mid-afternoon.
Rizwan and Salman Agha take charge
After Masood and Imam fell just short of centuries, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha built on their foundation, finishing the day unbeaten on half-centuries, leaving Pakistan well-placed heading into day two. Their measured innings demonstrated the team’s strategy of steady accumulation before exploiting a deteriorating pitch, a formula that has served Pakistan well in past subcontinent Tests.
South Africa reflect on first-day challenges
South Africa’s lead spinner Simon Harmer praised Pakistan’s approach, noting the importance of the toss and early batting conditions in the subcontinent.
“The best batting conditions are in the first session. They got the toss right and maximised it. Full credit to them; they played extremely well,” Harmer said.
Babar Azam, coming in with limited situational pressure, struggled to maintain momentum, scoring just 23 before falling lbw to Harmer on review, highlighting the subtle challenges of the pitch as it began offering turn late in the session.
Pakistan’s Test strategy shines
The day highlighted Pakistan’s emphasis on collective innings building over flashy individual milestones. Masood and Imam set the tone with stealthy early runs, Rizwan and Agha consolidated, and South Africa were left to contend with both scoreboard pressure and a pitch starting to show character. With these foundations, Pakistan may look back at day one as the key to securing a series lead against the visiting side.