Rain has interrupted Day 3 of the first Test between South Africa and Pakistan, washing out the entire first session. South Africa leads with a 90-run advantage, needing a win to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final. Pakistan will continue its second innings at 88 for 3, trailing by two runs.
The first session of Day 3 of the opening Test match between South Africa and Pakistan at SuperSport Park, Centurion, was completely washed out due to persistent rain. The start of play was significantly delayed, preventing any cricket action before lunch. As it stands, Pakistan will resume its second innings at 88 for 3 and is still two runs short of South Africa’s total.
South Africa has put itself in a strong position, needing only to win one of the two scheduled Tests against Pakistan to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final next June at Lord’s. They achieved a first innings lead of 90 runs, bolstered by Aiden Markram’s steady performance and a remarkable debut from Corbin Bosch, who scored an unbeaten 81. Bosch’s innings is notable for being the highest score ever recorded by a No. 9 batsman making his debut in Test cricket.
Pakistan, however, struggled in their first innings, being bowled out for 211 runs, with Corbin Bosch making an impactful entrance into the match by taking a wicket with his very first delivery and concluding with impressive figures of 4 wickets for 63 runs. In addition, Dane Paterson gave a commendable performance with the ball, claiming 5 wickets for 61 runs.
The first Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Centurion Park has drawn significant attention as both teams vie for crucial points in the World Test Championship. Ahead of the match, South Africa needed a victory to maintain their chances for a place in the championship final, with a richly talented squad fielding four fast bowlers while omitting a specialist spinner. Both teams understand the implications of this match not only for immediate standings but the longer-term opportunities in the World Test Championship, increasing the stakes.
In summary, the heavy rainfall has disrupted the start of Day 3 in the first Test match between South Africa and Pakistan, with no play before lunch. South Africa currently leads with a significant first innings advantage, striving for a win to qualify for the World Test Championship final. Meanwhile, Pakistan will be looking to regain momentum when play resumes. The performances of debutant Corbin Bosch and Dane Paterson have placed South Africa in a favorable position as they strive for victory.
Original Source: apnews.com
