PAK vs SA: Noman Ali’s 4-Wicket Haul Puts Pakistan in Command After Zorzi’s Gritty 81*

PAK vs SA – The first Test between Pakistan and South Africa in Multan has swung dramatically on Day 2, with left-arm spinner Noman Ali tearing through the Proteas’ top and middle order to leave them at 216/6 at stumps. Only Tony de Zorzi’s defiant, unbeaten 81 kept South Africa from total collapse on a pitch that’s increasingly favoring spin.

PAK vs SA: Spin Dominates Day 2 in Multan

After being bowled out for 378 in their first innings, Pakistan handed the ball to their spinners—and they delivered. Noman Ali was the star of the show, claiming 4 for 63, including the prized wickets of Aiden Markram, David Bedingham, and captain Temba Bavuma. Every single South African wicket so far has fallen to spin, underlining how the Multan pitch is turning into a spinner’s paradise.

Ali’s control, flight, and subtle variations kept the batters guessing. His dismissal of Bavuma—trapped LBW after a review—was a turning point that shifted momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favor.

Tony de Zorzi Stands Tall Amid Collapse

Amid the carnage, Tony de Zorzi played the innings of his life. The left-handed opener weathered early pressure, survived a dropped catch, and mixed caution with calculated aggression to reach an unbeaten 81 off 152 balls. His partnership with Khaya Zondo (28) offered brief resistance, but once Zondo fell to Abrar Ahmed, the Proteas slumped again.

De Zorzi’s knock included 10 boundaries and showcased maturity beyond his years. With the tail unlikely to last long on this surface, his ability to bat through Day 3 could define South Africa’s chances of avoiding a first-innings deficit.

Earlier: Muthusamy’s Career-Best Gives SA Hope

South Africa’s day began with promise as Senuran Muthusamy produced a career-best 6/117 to bowl Pakistan out. The left-arm spinner exploited the dry, crumbling surface brilliantly, breaking crucial stands and cleaning up the lower order. His figures were the best by a South African in Pakistan since 2007.

Pakistan’s innings was anchored by Abdullah Shafique (89) and Salman Ali Agha (61), but Muthusamy’s late burst ensured the hosts didn’t cross the 400-run mark.

Key Match Stats: PAK vs SA, 1st Test

Category	Detail
Pakistan 1st Innings	378 all out
Top Pakistan Scorer	Abdullah Shafique – 89
Best SA Bowler	Senuran Muthusamy – 6/117
South Africa 1st Innings (Stumps, Day 2)	216/6
Top SA Scorer	Tony de Zorzi – 81*
Best Pakistan Bowler	Noman Ali – 4/63
Wickets by Spinners (SA innings)	6/6

What’s at Stake on Day 3?

If de Zorzi can add another 50–70 runs with the tail, South Africa might limit the deficit to under 100. But if Pakistan’s spinners strike early—especially with Abrar Ahmed (1/38) and Ali in rhythm—a lead of 150+ is very possible. That would put Pakistan in a commanding position to push for a series-opening win.

[INTERNAL_LINK:Pakistan Cricket Team] will be eager to wrap up the innings quickly and bat aggressively in their second dig, knowing the pitch will only deteriorate further.

Sources

• Times of India – Match Report
• ESPNCricinfo – Live Scorecard