In a remarkable display of resilience, Pakistan’s captain Shan Masood and star batsman Babar Azam forged a record-breaking 205-run opening partnership against South Africa in the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town.
The Express TribuneThis stand has set a new benchmark for the highest opening partnership in a follow-on innings in Test cricket, surpassing previous records and providing a significant boost to Pakistan’s position in the match.
After being dismissed for 194 in their first innings, trailing South Africa’s imposing total of 615, Pakistan was compelled to follow on.
Facing a daunting deficit, Masood and Azam exhibited exceptional skill and determination. Masood reached his sixth Test century, remaining unbeaten on 102 at the close of play, while Azam contributed a valuable 81 runs before being dismissed.
Their partnership not only broke the previous record for the highest opening stand in a follow-on innings but also became Pakistan’s highest opening partnership against South Africa in Test matches. This performance has been pivotal in narrowing the deficit, with Pakistan ending day three at 213 for one, still trailing by 208 runs but with renewed optimism.
South Africa’s bowlers, who had dominated in the first innings, found it challenging to break the Masood-Azam partnership. The pitch, which had offered assistance to bowlers earlier, seemed to have eased, allowing the Pakistani openers to capitalize and build a solid foundation.
This partnership has not only provided a statistical milestone but has also infused the Pakistani camp with confidence. The resilience shown by Masood and Azam reflects the team’s determination to fight back and possibly set a challenging target for South Africa in the remaining days of the Test.
As the match progresses, Pakistan will aim to build on this momentum, with the middle order looking to support the solid start provided by the openers. The record-breaking stand between Masood and Azam will be remembered as a highlight of the series and a testament to their batting prowess under pressure.