Sports Buzz

Tag: Babar Azam

  • ‘Nobody has achieved in ODIs what Babar Azam has’ – Imad Wasim blames Aaqib Javed for career destruction

    ‘Nobody has achieved in ODIs what Babar Azam has’ – Imad Wasim blames Aaqib Javed for career destruction

    Former Pakistan cricketer Imad Wasim talked about Babar Azam being asked to open the innings in the ODIs. He lashed out at the critics, saying that what the right-hander has achieved, nobody has done that and he has the best skills in Pakistan.

    Pakistan National Cricket Team batter Babar Azam has come under a massive scanner for his poor form. The right-hander has looked torrid with the bat and is yet to score big runs, which has seen many questioning his place in the team across the formats.

    narinegame

    Ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Babar Azam was given the new role to open the innings. The right-hander started the new role during the tri-series against South Africa and New Zealand but he couldn’t set the stage on fire in the entire series.

    Babar Azam was dropped from the Pakistan team in the T20I format

    It was expected that Babar would then come up with a better performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. But that, too, wasn’t the case as he failed in the tournament. The batter hit fifty in the game against New Zealand but was criticized a lot for batting slow. Then, against India, he again bagged a low score.

    Following his poor show in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Babar Azam then was dropped from the Pakistan team in the T20I format. He has been named in just the ODI squad for the New Zealand tour but there is no clarity about his batting role.

    Nobody has got the skills that Babar Azam has got in one-day cricket – Imad Wasim

    While talking about Babar, Imad Wasim said that the batter’s skills in the ODIs are unmatched. He talked about his changed batting position, saying that he was the only player who used to bat 40 overs, and his position was changed. Speaking to the media, he said:

    “Now you are saying, I was watching the criticism, now you are saying that you should drop Babar Azam from one-day cricket, which is going on in our country. Look, nobody has got the skills that Babar Azam has got in one-day cricket. I am specifically talking about one-day cricket. Whatever he has achieved, nobody has achieved so far.

    “The problem is, you had only one player who used to play 40 overs. You made him open, and you brought in another type of players around him. You keep him at no. 3. You don’t have openers in the whole of Pakistan.”

    We are just not moving in the right direction – Imad Wasim

    Imad Wasim added that he is surprised with the logic that is being used by the Pakistan management. He pointed out every new appointment in the management is making new decisions, adding that they are not moving in the right direction. He explained:

    “I mean, I am surprised that logically, I cannot understand them. Whoever comes on the chair, he changes. Whoever comes, he makes things very different. So, we are just not moving in the right direction. We are just moving backwards. Eventually, I am afraid that if you keep playing like this, you will not qualify for the next Champions Trophy.”

    Also read: Varun Chakravarthy’s Test selection on the cards? Spinner makes huge revelation

    Source link

  • WATCH: Rashid Khan receives a heartfelt welcome from Babar Azam and Haris Rauf in Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025

    WATCH: Rashid Khan receives a heartfelt welcome from Babar Azam and Haris Rauf in Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025

    The cricketing world is abuzz with excitement as Afghanistan’s star all-rounder, Rashid Khan, arrived in Karachi to join his team for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The tournament, set to take place in Pakistan and the UAE, promises to be a thrilling spectacle, and Rashid’s arrival has already added a touch of star power to the event.

    A heartwarming video shared by the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) on social media captured the moment Rashid was welcomed by Pakistan’s Haris Rauf and batting maestro Babar Azam at the team hotel. The camaraderie between the players highlighted the spirit of sportsmanship and mutual respect that defines cricket.

    Babar Azam and Haris Rauf welcomes the Afghan superstar Rashid Khan

    The video of Rashid’s arrival quickly went viral, showcasing the warm reception he received from his Pakistan counterparts. Rauf, known for his fiery pace, greeted Rashid with a smile and a handshake, while Babar, one of the world’s top batters, engaged in a friendly chat with the Afghan all-rounder. The interaction between the players was a testament to the bond that transcends rivalries on the field.

    Rashid’s arrival in Karachi marks a significant moment for Afghanistan cricket, as the team looks to make a strong impression in the Champions Trophy. Known for his lethal leg-spin and explosive batting, Rashid is a key player for Afghanistan, and his presence is expected to bolster the team’s chances in the tournament.

    Here’s the video:

    Also READ: India’s Parthiv Patel reveals the ‘dark horse’ in Champions Trophy 2025

    Afghanistan’s rocky start ahead of prestigious tournament

    Rashid’s arrival comes at a critical juncture for Afghanistan, who are looking to bounce back after a challenging start to their Champions Trophy preparations. In their first warm-up match, Afghanistan faced a crushing defeat at the hands of Pakistan Shaheens. The Shaheens posted a formidable total of 314/8 in their 50 overs, thanks to impressive performances from Hussain Talat (70), Mohsin Riaz (61), and Mohammad Irfan Khan (57).

    Afghanistan’s batting lineup struggled to cope with the pressure, collapsing to 170 all out in 38.4 overs. The Shaheens’ captain, Shadab Khan, led from the front with the ball, claiming 3/29 and dismantling Afghanistan’s batting order. The 144-run loss was a wake-up call for the Afghan team, who are now focused on regrouping and refining their strategies ahead of the main tournament.

    Afghanistan’s road map for the Champions Trophy 2025

    Currently, Afghanistan are playing their second warm-up match against New Zealand in Karachi. Under the leadership of Hashmatullah Shahidi, the team is determined to iron out their flaws and build momentum before the Champions Trophy begins. The warm-up matches serve as a crucial opportunity for the players to adapt to the conditions and fine-tune their game plans.

    Afghanistan’s campaign in the Champions Trophy 2025 will kick off on February 21 at the newly renovated National Bank Stadium in Karachi, where they will face South Africa. The team will then travel to Lahore to take on England on February 26 and Australia on February 28. These matches will be a true test of Afghanistan’s resilience and ability to compete against the world’s best teams.

    As Afghanistan’s talisman, Rashid’s role in the team cannot be overstated. His ability to turn games with both bat and ball makes him a formidable opponent for any team. Rashid’s arrival in Pakistan has not only lifted the spirits of the Afghan squad but also added an extra layer of excitement for fans eagerly anticipating the Champions Trophy.

    Also READ: Champions Trophy 2025: Australia’s Michael Clarke predicts top run-scorer, wicket-taker and player of the tournament

    Source link

  • Mohammad Amir blasts PCB for forcing Babar Azam to open in ODIs

    Mohammad Amir blasts PCB for forcing Babar Azam to open in ODIs

    Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Amir isn’t impressed with Babar Azam being asked to open the innings for the team in the ODIs. He said that the batter was better at No.3 as it was his strength and he knows how to build innings at that position.

    Pakistan National Cricket Team made a massive call ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Babar Azam has been promoted up the order and this came after Saim Ayub was ruled out of the tournament due to the ankle injury that he faced during the South Africa tour.

    Babar Azam registered scores of 10(23), 23(19) & 29(34) in the tri-series against New Zealand and South Africa

    Babar took the role of opening in the ongoing tri-series against the New Zealand National Cricket Team and the South Africa National Cricket Team. However, he failed to deliver as he couldn’t score big in the three games that he played including the final which is underway in Karachi.

    Babar has registered scores of 10(23), 23(19) & 29(34) in the tri-series, and this has been the biggest cause of concern for the team, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 around the corner. On the other hand, at No.3, he has been at his best and has scored truckloads of runs for his team in the 50-over format.

    With Babar moving to the top, many experts and fans are of the opinion that disrupting his position wasn’t a great decision. They believe that batter’s best comes at No.3 and they should’ve let him bat in his position.

    Babar Azam’s strength is number 3, he knows how to build innings from there – Mohammad Amir

    Mohammad Amir was the latest to join the bandwagon and he too believes that Babar Azam should bat at No.3, saying that batter’s strength is to bat at 3. He stressed that batter knows how to build innings and batting positions in Tests and ODIs should be defined. Speaking on a news channel, he said:

    “As I told you, my strength is that if I don’t get to bowl with a new ball, I won’t be able to use it because it’s my strength, a new ball. And I should be picked with my strength. Babar’s strength is number 3. He knows how to build innings from there. The opener’s role is different in T20. In One-Day and Test, the role is different.

    “He has to do it in phases. In 10 overs, I have to take a chance. In the next 10 overs, I have to build a partnership. The role is different. Babar, yes, he’s a big player. But I think he should have played at number 3. This is his strength. Yes, when you’re stuck, you try different things. Maybe I should take runs from here or there.”

    Babar Azam will be opening the innings in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as well

    Babar will be opening the innings in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 as well. The Pakistan National Cricket Team management will be hopeful that the batter adapts to the role as quickly as possible as it will be a great boost for the team.

    ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is all set to begin on 19th February. Pakistan will play the tournament opener against New Zealand.

    Read Also: Watch: Babar Azam drops his bat in disgust after failure in PAK vs NZ Tri-series final

    Source link

  • Live from champions trophy 2025 🏆 #pakistancricket #pcb #lahorecricket

    Live from champions trophy 2025 🏆 #pakistancricket #pcb #lahorecricket



    Source link

  • Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test

    Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test

    The second Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Johannesburg has been a entertaining contest, with South Africa dominating early and Pakistan showing resilience late in the match. South Africa’s first innings saw a colossal total of 615, led by Ryan Rickelton’s double-century and centuries from Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne. Pakistan’s reply faltered as they were dismissed for a meager 194, with Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen shining with the ball.

    Forced to follow on, Pakistan staged an impressive fightback, thanks to Shan Masood’s unbeaten century and Babar Azam’s composed 81, as the duo added 205 for the opening wicket. By stumps on Day 3, Pakistan had reached 213/1, narrowing the deficit to 208 runs. The battle now hangs in the balance, with both teams eyeing key moments to seize control. Day 4 promises to be an enthralling chapter in this high-stakes Test.

    South Africa’s dominance with the bat

    South Africa showcased their batting supremacy with an imposing total of 615 runs in their first innings. The highlight of their performance was Rickelton’s masterful knock of 259 runs, which was an exhibition of precision and patience. His innings, laced with 29 boundaries and three towering sixes, set the foundation for the Proteas’ commanding total. Bavuma contributed a captain’s knock of 106, showing immense grit and determination at the crease.

    Verreynne also joined the centurion’s club, striking a fluid 100 runs that added depth to South Africa’s batting efforts. Lower down the order, Jansen’s quick-fire 62 further demoralized the Pakistani bowlers. Mohammad Abbas and Agha Salman were the pick of the bowlers for Pakistan, each taking three wickets, but they struggled to stem the flow of runs. South Africa’s relentless aggression left Pakistan staring at an uphill battle from the outset.

    Pakistan’s struggles in the first innings

    Pakistan’s first innings was a story of disappointment and missed opportunities, as the visitors could only muster 194 runs. Babar tried to anchor the innings with a fighting 58, but the lack of support from other batters proved costly. The top-order collapse left Pakistan reeling, with South Africa’s pace duo of Rabada and Jansen exploiting every weakness. Rabada’s fiery three-wicket haul was marked by unrelenting pace and pinpoint accuracy.

    Keshav Maharaj added to the misery with two crucial dismissals, showcasing his guile on a pitch that offered little spin. Pakistan’s middle and lower order fell apart under sustained pressure, with no batter stepping up to stabilize the innings. The massive deficit of 421 runs forced Pakistan to follow on, a scenario that put their resilience to the ultimate test. The first innings exposed the visitors’ frailties against quality bowling in testing conditions.

    Also WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Shan Masood and Babar Azam lead the fightback

    After being forced to follow on, Pakistan displayed remarkable determination, led by Masood’s unbeaten century. Masood’s 102 off 166 balls was an innings of defiance and technical brilliance, ensuring his team avoided an immediate collapse. Former skipper Babar complemented him with a composed knock of 81, showcasing his ability to absorb pressure in challenging circumstances. Together, the duo forged a crucial 205-run opening partnership, laying a solid foundation for Pakistan’s fightback.

    Their partnership frustrated South Africa’s bowlers, who struggled to find breakthroughs on a pitch that had eased considerably. Masood’s array of elegant strokes and Azam’s precise shot selection kept the scoreboard ticking steadily. By the end of Day 3, Pakistan reached 213/1, significantly reducing the deficit to 208 runs. The spirited batting display revived hopes of salvaging the match and set the stage for an intriguing Day 4.

    South Africa’s bowling efforts in the second innings

    South Africa’s bowlers worked tirelessly in the second innings but found limited success against Pakistan’s rejuvenated top order. Jansen was the lone wicket-taker, dismissing Babar with a well-directed short delivery that ended the crucial opening stand. Maharaj bowled with exceptional control, tying down one end with his precise line and length. Despite their efforts, the pitch seemed to have flattened out, offering little assistance to the bowlers.

    Rabada and Ngidi tried to extract pace and bounce but were largely neutralized by Masood and Azam’s disciplined approach. The South African fielders, however, maintained high energy levels, preventing easy runs and applying pressure. The bowlers persisted with attacking fields, searching for breakthroughs that could tilt the game back in their favor. South Africa will aim to regroup and strategize overnight to break Pakistan’s momentum on the penultimate day.

    Here’s how fans reacted:

    Also READ: PSL 2025 Draft: Here’s the complete list of players retained by all 6 teams – Babar Azam to Mohammad Rizwan



    Source link

  • WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test

    Day 2 of the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Newlands, Cape Town, took an unexpected turn when a South African commentator made disparaging remarks about the English-speaking abilities of Pakistan cricketers. The incident not only ignited controversy but also shifted focus from the on-field action to questions of respect and professionalism in cricket commentary.

    The contentious moment occurred during the sixth over of Pakistan’s second innings, as Kamran Ghulam defended a delivery from Marco Jansen and called out a loud “Wait” to his partner, Babar Azam. The commentator took this opportunity to share an anecdote about playing alongside Pakistan batter Khurram Mansoor in Abu Dhabi. He remarked that Manzoor, like many other Pakistan players, made loud calls in English on the field but struggled to communicate fluently in English during post-match interviews. The comment was followed by laughter, creating an impression of mockery directed at the linguistic abilities of Pakistani players.

    Here’s the video:

    Marco Jansen’s magic: Fall of Kamran Ghulam

    On the next ball after the incident, Jansen picked the key wicket of Ghulam, Bowling from around the wicket, Jansen angled the ball in sharply with a full length, targeting the stumps. Khurram, unsure of his footwork, was caught rooted to the crease and attempted a defensive shot. However, the ball zipped through the narrow gap between his bat and pad, crashing into the stumps in spectacular fashion. The combination of late movement and Jansen’s accuracy proved too challenging for Khurram. This dismissal highlighted Jansen’s ability to create awkward angles and exploit weaknesses in Pakistan’s batting. With Pakistan reduced to 18/3, Jansen’s double strike left the visitors in deep trouble.

    Also READ: South Africa’s AB de Villiers reveals his Test XI of 2024 ft. Jasprit Bumrah

    South Africa’s dominance over Pakistan in the Cape Town Test

    The second Test between South Africa and Pakistan so far saw a commanding performance from South Africa, who declared their first innings at a massive 615, thanks to Ryan Rickelton ‘s marathon 259 and a crucial century from Kyle Verreynne. South Africa’s innings was highlighted by partnerships that wore down the Pakistan bowling attack, which struggled in the absence of premier pacers Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Shahzad. Despite breakthroughs from Mohammad Abbas and Agha Salman, Pakistan failed to capitalize on early wickets, allowing the hosts to dictate terms.

    In response, Pakistan’s innings got off to a shaky start, losing Shan Masood for just 2 and Saud Shakeel for a duck, both dismissed by a fiery Kagiso Rabada. Jansen added to Pakistan’s woes, removing Ghulam early in the innings. At stumps on Day 2, Pakistan found themselves precariously placed at 64/3, still trailing by 551 runs, with Babar (31 not out) and Mohammad Rizwan (9 not out) tasked with rebuilding the innings.

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Cape Town Weather Forecast for the Second Test | South Africa vs Pakistan 2024-25



    Source link

  • Twitter reactions: Deadlock in Centurion as South Africa and Pakistan exchange blows on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test

    Twitter reactions: Deadlock in Centurion as South Africa and Pakistan exchange blows on Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test

    Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test between South Africa and Pakistan unfolded as a gripping contest, with both teams refusing to give an inch. Set a modest target of 148, South Africa found themselves in trouble at 27/3 by stumps, courtesy of a fierce spell from Pakistan’s pacers. Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s lower order succumbed to the relentless brilliance of Marco Jansen, whose career-best 6/62 dismantled their second innings and left them with only a slender lead to defend. However, the visitors displayed remarkable resilience in the field, striking thrice in the final session to keep their hopes alive.

    Pakistan’s batting collapse: Saud Shakeel’s fighting knock

    The third day, after the first session got washed out due to rain, began with Pakistan resuming at 88/3, hoping to extend their lead significantly on a pitch that was gradually deteriorating. Saud Shakeel, continuing his fine form, looked determined to anchor the innings. However, Mohammad Rizwan‘s early dismissal to Jansen set the tone for a dismal morning for the visitors. Rizwan, attempting to counter Jansen’s aggressive short-ball strategy, edged to the slips for a mere 13 runs.

    This wicket opened the floodgates as Pakistan’s lower-middle order capitulated under relentless pressure. Jansen’s clever use of the uneven bounce and his ability to extract pace from the surface proved too much for the tailenders. Shakeel battled valiantly for his 84, showcasing immense skill and composure, but he found little support at the other end. Pakistan folded for 237, with Jansen’s career-best 6/62 dismantling any hopes of a substantial lead. The innings exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially under testing conditions.

    Early strikes from Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad rock South Africa

    South Africa’s chase of 148 runs began under overcast conditions, which further aided Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Mohammad Abbas struck in his very first over, trapping Tony de Zorzi with a delivery that jagged back sharply off the seam. Abbas, known for his pinpoint accuracy, exploited the conditions to perfection, giving Pakistan an ideal start.

    Khurram Shahzad then produced a moment of brilliance, dismissing Tristan Stubbs with a delivery that swung late and found the outside edge, leaving the batter stunned. Shahzad continued his fiery spell, targeting the body with short-pitched deliveries and eventually claiming Ryan Rickelton with a well-directed bouncer that took the top edge. By stumps, South Africa were in deep trouble at 27/3, with Pakistan’s pacers showcasing tremendous skill and determination to keep their team in the contest.

    Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test – SA vs PAK

    Aiden Markram stands firm amidst the chaos

    Amid the carnage at the other end, Aiden Markram stood tall, demonstrating remarkable resilience and composure. His unbeaten 22 was a masterclass in adaptability, as he skillfully negotiated the testing conditions. Markram’s judgment outside the off-stump and his ability to counter the short ball were critical in ensuring South Africa did not collapse entirely under pressure.

    While his innings lacked flamboyance, it was rich in substance, as he absorbed the relentless pressure from Abbas and Shahzad. Recognizing the importance of preserving his wicket, Markram refrained from any rash strokes, focusing instead on building a foundation for the chase. As the day ended with South Africa requiring 121 runs and Pakistan needing seven wickets, Markram’s role in steering the innings forward remained pivotal. His ability to anchor the chase amidst the crumbling top order will likely define the outcome of this enthralling contest.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test



    Source link

  • Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test

    Twitter reactions: South Africa takes charge over Pakistan as Corbin Bosch delivers a stellar performance on Day 2 of Centurion Test

    South Africa’s rising star, Corbin Bosch, delivered a breathtaking debut performance to seize control of the first Test of the two-game series against Pakistan at SuperSport Park. Bosch, batting at No. 9, played a pivotal role with an unbeaten 81 off 93 balls, marking the highest score ever by a debutant at that position in Test cricket. His innings transformed South Africa’s modest lead into a commanding 90-run advantage, as the hosts were bowled out for 301 in response to Pakistan’s 211.

    Corbin Bosch’s heroics on debut propel South Africa to dominance

    Bosch’s innings was laced with 15 exquisite boundaries, showcasing his ability to combine technical precision with aggressive intent. His remarkable knock came under immense pressure after the team had lost wickets in quick succession, leaving the innings precariously placed at 213-8. The match swung decisively in South Africa’s favor, thanks to Bosch’s partnerships with the lower order. He first added 41 runs alongside Kagiso Rabada (13), steadying the ship after a mid-innings collapse, and then extended the lead further with a 47-run stand with last man Dane Paterson (12).

    Bosch batted with flair and confidence, displaying a wide range of strokes that left the Pakistan bowlers visibly frustrated. His ability to find gaps with precision cover drives and pull shots underlined his batting prowess. Despite being a fast bowler, Bosch’s first-class batting average of over 40 proved he was more than capable of stepping up in a critical situation. Bosch’s bowling contributions were equally impactful, as he finished with impressive first-innings figures of 4/63. His fiery pace and accuracy troubled the Pakistan batters throughout their innings.

    Pakistan stumbles in the face of South Africa’s lead

    South Africa’s bowlers built on Bosch’s heroics by putting Pakistan under immense pressure in their second innings. By the close of play on Day 2, the visitors were struggling at 88/3, still trailing by two runs. The opening pair of Saim Ayub (28) and captain Shan Masood (28) provided a positive start, counterattacking South Africa’s formidable pace attack with a 49-run opening stand. However, Pakistan’s progress was derailed as they lost three wickets for just 25 runs under deteriorating light conditions. Kagiso Rabada provided the breakthrough, dismissing Ayub with a searing delivery that knocked back his off stump.

    Marco Jansen further tightened South Africa’s grip by removing Masood and first-innings top-scorer Kamran Ghulam (8) in quick succession. Jansen exploited the gloomy conditions brilliantly, finding the outside edges of both batters with well-directed deliveries to slip and gully, respectively. Pakistan’s hopes now rest on Babar Azam (16 not out) and Saud Shakeel (8 not out), who showed some resistance before bad light brought an early end to the day’s play. With South Africa’s bowlers maintaining relentless pressure, the visitors face a daunting task to regain parity in the match.

    Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test – SA vs PAK

    South Africa recovers after middle-order collapse

    Earlier, South Africa’s strong position came after overcoming a troubling collapse in their first innings. The team was cruising at 178/4 when a fiery spell from Naseem Shah triggered a dramatic slide, reducing them to 213/8. Naseem bowled a marathon 10-over spell, claiming three crucial wickets, including the prized scalp of opener Aiden Markram, who top-scored with a fluent 89. Markram missed out on what would have been his eighth Test century, edging a leg-side delivery from Khurram Shahzad to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. His dismissal left South Africa’s middle order vulnerable, with captain Temba Bavuma (31) and David Bedingham (30) also failing to convert their starts.

    Bavuma and Markram had earlier stabilized the innings with a 70-run fourth-wicket stand. However, Bavuma’s dismissal, edging a length ball from Aamer Jamal, opened the floodgates for Pakistan’s bowlers. Bedingham briefly counterattacked, smashing five boundaries in his 33-ball knock, but Naseem’s extra bounce proved too difficult to handle as Bedingham nicked a sharp delivery to first slip just before lunch. South Africa’s collapse seemed to hand the momentum back to Pakistan until Bosch’s late-order heroics turned the tide in dramatic fashion.

    Bosch’s counterattack, along with Paterson’s resilient batting, not only extended the lead but also demoralized Pakistan’s bowling attack. Paterson showcased his own batting abilities, hitting a straight six off the returning Mohammad Abbas (1/79), who was making his comeback after three years. Although Bosch fell short of what could have been a memorable debut century, his contribution ensured South Africa entered Pakistan’s second innings with momentum firmly on their side.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test



    Source link

  • Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting

    Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting

    The Day 1 of the first Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Centurion showcased a riveting contest as the hosts ended firmly in command. Pakistan, opting to bat first, struggled to cope with South Africa’s disciplined bowling, folding for 211 in their first innings. Dane Paterson delivered a phenomenal performance, claiming five wickets, while Corbin Bosch provided excellent support with four scalps. South Africa responded confidently, ending the day at 82/3, with Aiden Markram anchoring the innings with an unbeaten 47. The hosts trail by 129 runs and are in a commanding position heading into Day 2.

    Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch demolishes Pakistan

    Paterson was the star performer with the ball, producing a sensational spell to claim 5/61 in 16 overs. Utilizing the bounce and seam movement offered by the Centurion pitch, Paterson dismantled Pakistan’s top and middle order. He removed captain Shan Masood, the ever-reliable Mohammad Rizwan, and other batters with sharp, disciplined bowling. Pakistan never found momentum, losing wickets at regular intervals. Bosch’s impactful contribution (4/63) provided critical support, dismissing key players like Kamran Ghulam and Aamer Jamal. Together, the duo ensured that Pakistan’s innings lacked the partnerships needed for a substantial total.

    Also WATCH: Dane Paterson sends Babar Azam packing on Day 1 of the SA vs PAK 1st Test

    Kamran Ghulam stands tall amidst the collapse

    Ghulam was the lone warrior in Pakistan’s batting lineup, showcasing resilience with a fluent 54 off 71 balls. Arriving at the crease with Pakistan struggling at 40/2, Ghulam played a composed yet attacking knock, striking eight boundaries and a six. He combined with Rizwan in a crucial 81-run partnership for the fifth wicket, countering South Africa’s relentless attack. However, Paterson ended his resistance just before tea, triggering a lower-order collapse. While Jamal chipped in with a quick 28 off 27 balls, Pakistan’s innings faltered as they lost their last five wickets for just 74 runs, wrapping up at 211 in 57.3 overs.

    Aiden Markram guides South Africa’s reply

    In response, South Africa had a mixed start, losing Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton early to Khurram Shahzad’s disciplined bowling. At 24/2, the pressure was on Markram, who rose to the occasion with a confident and unbeaten 47. Markram played with authority, striking nine elegant boundaries and ensuring stability amidst the fall of wickets. Tristan Stubbs’ dismissal by Mohammad Abbas for 9 added to South Africa’s early woes, but Markram found a steady partner in Temba Bavuma, who remained unbeaten on 4. By stumps, the duo had guided South Africa to 82/3, setting up the platform for the hosts to seize control on the second day.

    Here’s how Twitter reacted:

    Also READ: SA vs PAK: Fans mercilessly troll Babar Azam for his flop show with the bat on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test



    Source link

  • SA vs PAK, Boxing-Day Test: Top 3 key battles to watch out for

    SA vs PAK, Boxing-Day Test: Top 3 key battles to watch out for

    After an exciting T20I and ODI series, South Africa and Pakistan are once again set to face each other in the longest format of the game with the first match, the Boxing-Day Test starting from December 26.

    The much-awaited Test clash

    The opening Test of the 2-match series will set the tone for the five-day action between the two nations. The clash is also crucial for the ICC World Test Championship standings. South Africa are leaders of the current 2023-25 cycle with 6 wins in 10 Test matches. The Proteas, on one hand, will strive to continue their Test cricket dominance and consolidate their spot in the WTC finals. Pakistan, on the other hand, will look forward to upset the South Africans once again after they defeated South Africa 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series.

    3 battles to watch out for in SA vs PAK first Test

    • Temba Bavuma vs Naseem Shah: Endurance Vs Pace

    The South African captain had a silent span with the bat against Pakistan in the ODI series, but the 34-year-old is never to be taken lightly. His success with the bat in the recent test series against Sri Lanka speaks volumes of his potential and ability to keep going in the five-day format. The most prominent name trying to stop Bavuma will be a young pace sensation for Pakistan, Naseem. The 21-year-old has been a notable addition in the Pakistan squad for some time now. In Test cricket, particularly on favourable pitches like Centurion, he can get rid of any batter for Pakistan with a stroke of brilliance.

    Also Read: SA vs PAK: Saim Ayub enters exclusive club alongside Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli following impressive ton in 3rd ODI

    Both Babar and Rabada do not need an introduction in world cricket. While Babar is the backbone of Pakistan batting, Rabada is the leader of the South African bowling line-up now entering the prime of his prowess as a Test bowler. The encounter between these two can ultimately decide the outcome of the series. Babar’s dominance can pave a way for Pakistan’s triumph while Rabada’s ferocious bowling can lead South Africa to a historic series win.

    • Mohammad Rizwan vs Marco Jansen: A tactical master-class

    Rizwan is very much the brains of the Pakistani squad. He has the ability to keep his temperament steady even in adverse conditions, something of prime value in Test cricket. On the other side stands South Africa’s towering pacer Jansen. Known for his sharp bounce and deceptive variations, Jansen brings an aggressive edge to the contest. He aims to unsettle batters with his sheer height and precise line, forcing them into errors. This battle promises to be both enthralling and crucial for the fortunes of both teams.

    Also WATCH: 18-year-old Kwena Maphaka removes Babar Azam for a duck in SA vs PAK 2024 1st T20I

    Source link