Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique’s half century put Pakistan ahead in the second Test against South Africa

Shan Masood and Abdullah Shafique scored crucial half-centuries as Pakistan ended Day 1 at 259/5, gaining the upper hand against South Africa in the second Test at Rawalpindi.

New Delhi: The first day of the 2nd Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium ended with the match delicately poised. Pakistan, having won the toss, chose to bat first and posted a total of 259 for 5 in 91 overs.

Morning Session and Early Breakthrough

South Africa struck early as Simon Harmer removed Imam-ul-Haq for 17 in the morning session. Despite the early setback, Abdullah Shafique and Shan Masood stitched a crucial second-wicket partnership, stabilizing Pakistan’s innings. Shafique’s fifty was a highlight, showcasing composure and stroke-making under pressure.

Second Session and South Africa Pushed Back

Once Shafique fell for 57, South Africa fought back effectively. Spinners Keshav Maharaj and Harmer bowled the bulk of the overs, not allowing too many Pakistan batters to settle. Babar Azam contributed 16 but fell to Maharaj, while Shan Masood narrowly missed his century, scoring 87.

Third Session, Pakistan End Day 1 Strong

Mohammad Rizwan played a steady innings of 19, remaining unbeaten at stumps. Pakistan lost wickets at regular intervals but kept the scoreboard ticking. Extras contributed 11 runs, and Saud Shakeel and Salman Agha remained not out as Pakistan ended the day at 259/5.

Key Stats – Day 1

Top Scorers: Shan Masood 87, Abdullah Shafique 57, Imam-ul-Haq 17

Best Bowlers: Keshav Maharaj 3/36, Simon Harmer 2/75, Kagiso Rabada 1/41

Fall of Wickets: 35-1 (Imam-ul-Haq), 146-2 (Shafique), 167-3 (Babar), 212-4 (Shan), 246-5 (Rizwan)

Overs Bowled: 91

Match Info: PAK vs RSA, 2nd Test, South Africa tour of Pakistan, Oct 20–24, 2025, Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium

Match Situation

Pakistan has a healthy start with 5 wickets down, largely due to solid contributions from Shafique and Shan. South Africa showed resilience, taking key wickets and keeping Pakistan in check. The match remains finely balanced, with spin likely to play a big role in the coming days.

Story Highlights

1. Pakistan ended Day 1 at 259/5, with Shan Masood top-scoring 87.
2. Abdullah Shafique scored a vital fifty for Pakistan.
3. Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer were the pick of the bowlers for South Africa.
4. The match remains balanced, with spin expected to be crucial in the next two days.