Interim Coach Praises Pakistan’s Test Performance Against South Africa

LAHORE: Following Pakistan’s dominant start in the first Test against South Africa at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, interim red-ball head coach Azhar Mahmood commended the national team’s performance.

Mahmood expressed his appreciation on social media, highlighting the outstanding contributions of captain Shan Masood and returning opener Imam-ul-Haq. The pair achieved a remarkable 161-run partnership for the second wicket, marking Pakistan’s highest partnership against South Africa on home soil.

“A great opening day for Pakistan! Scoring 313/5. Imam & skipper Shan spearheaded with an exceptional 161-run stand — Pakistan’s best ever vs South Africa at home,” Mahmood remarked.

The former all-rounder also lauded the resilience and crucial half-centuries from wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and all-rounder Salman Ali Agha, which helped stabilize the innings following a brief setback.

“After a minor stumble, Rizwan & Agha displayed composure with a strong partnership. Now, the goal is to capitalize on the remaining 5 wickets and surpass 400,” he stated.

Pakistan concluded the first day in a commanding position at 313-5 in 90 overs, with Rizwan remaining undefeated on 62 and Salman Ali Agha on 52.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Pakistan faced an initial setback when opener Abdullah Shafique was dismissed leg-before by Kagiso Rabada for just two in the opening over.

However, Shan Masood and Imam-ul-Haq then revitalized the innings with an impressive 161-run partnership.

Imam, making his return to Test cricket after nearly two years, celebrated his comeback with a fluid 93 off 153 deliveries, including seven boundaries and one six. Shan contributed a well-composed 76 off 147 balls, featuring nine fours and one six.

Their partnership was broken when Prenelan Subrayen removed Shan, followed by Senuran Muthusamy’s two quick wickets before tea, dismissing Imam and Saud Shakeel (0), leaving Pakistan at 199-4.

Babar Azam, who achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Pakistani and eighth overall batter to reach 3,000 runs in the ICC World Test Championship, added 23 off 48 before being dismissed by Simon Harmer.

During the final session, Rizwan and Salman forged a crucial unbroken century stand for the sixth wicket, firmly establishing Pakistan’s control as they approached Day Two.