The second Test (Day 3) between South Africa and Pakistan began at Newlands, Cape Town, with South Africa having scored 615 runs in their first innings. Pakistan ends Day 2 struggling at 64 for 3 wickets. Highlights from Day 2 included R Rickelton’s double century and K Verreynne’s century. Pakistan’s response is critical as they aim to overcome South Africa’s substantial lead.

The second Test match between South Africa and Pakistan commenced its third day today, January 5, 2025, at Newlands, Cape Town, with the match beginning at 02:00 PM IST. South Africa, having scored 615 runs in their first innings, established a commanding position over Pakistan, who faced challenges right from their innings’ inception, concluding Day 2 at 64 for 3 wickets after posting 24 runs early on the third day.

Highlights from Day 2 illustrated South Africa’s batting dominance, particularly featuring remarkable performances by R Rickelton and K Verreynne. Rickelton achieved a remarkable double century, scoring 200 runs off 266 balls, complemented by Verreynne’s sixth wicket partnership contribution leading to a score of 101 runs off 132 balls and his subsequent Test century, totaling 100 runs from 144 balls.

During Day 2, Pakistan struggled against a robust South African bowling attack, leading to their top-order collapse. Much anticipation surrounds the Pakistani response on Day 3, as they aim to stabilize their innings against an opponent who has clearly asserted its dominance in the match.

The ongoing series between South Africa and Pakistan marks a critical part of the 2024/25 international cricket calendar. The second Test has significant implications for both teams, as they aim to establish dominance not only in this match but throughout the series. Newlands, Cape Town, serves as a prestigious venue for this confrontation, known for its favorable conditions for batters and bowlers alike. The performance on Day 2 showcased South Africa’s batting prowess, raising expectations for their ongoing innings and putting pressure on Pakistan to perform in their subsequent innings.

In summary, South Africa’s impressive first-innings total of 615 places them in a commanding position against Pakistan in the second Test match of the series. With Day 3 underway, all eyes will be on Pakistan’s batting response, which must counteract the formidable lead established by South Africa. The outcomes of this Test will be pivotal as both teams continue to vie for supremacy in this series.

Original Source: www.livemint.com