PAK vs SA: Shakeel, Pakistan pacers shine as 1st Test set for thrilling finish

Rain, runs, and riveting cricket defined an action-packed third day at SuperSport Park, leaving the Centurion Test finely poised. A low target of 148, combined with Pakistan's spirited bowling, set up a thrilling finale, with South Africa needing 121 runs and Pakistan requiring seven wickets.

Persistent rain delayed the start, but once play resumed, Pakistan added 51 crucial runs for their last three wickets across two innings, taking their second-innings total to 237. Saud Shakeel played a brilliant knock of 84 off 131, exhibiting calm and class. Babar Azam, after ending his 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 pivotal as Pakistan squandered a solid position by losing wickets in clusters.

South Africa’s chase began under pressure as Pakistan's bowlers came out firing. Veteran Mohammad Abbas led the charge, making the new ball talk. He trapped Tony de Zorzi (1) and Tristan Stubbs



(1) leg-before, while Khurram Shahzad struck to dismiss Ryan Rickelton (0). At stumps, South Africa were reeling at 27/3, with Aiden Markram unbeaten on 22 and skipper Temba Bavuma yet to score.

Abbas, with figures of 2/3 from four overs, was exceptional, while Shahzad supported him well. Pakistan’s sharp fielding and two successful DRS calls added to South Africa’s woes. Markram’s composure will be crucial on Day 4 as the pitch, offering variable bounce, continues to aid bowlers.

Earlier, Marco Jansen’s fiery spell dismantled Pakistan’s middle order, with support from Kagiso Rabada (2/37). Despite Pakistan’s fight, they were guilty of playing loose shots, leaving them vulnerable.

With 112 runs needed and seven wickets in hand, South Africa remain slight favourites, but Pakistan’s disciplined bowling has kept them in the contest. The potential final day promises an intense battle as both teams eye victory in this gripping Test.