Keshav Maharaj delivered a masterclass in spin bowling on Day 2 of the Rawalpindi Test, claiming a historic seven-wicket haul that floored Pakistan. But just as the visitors seemed to seize control, a 38-year-old debutant, Asif Afridi, struck twice late in the day to keep the hosts firmly in the contest.
Table of Contents
- Maharaj’s Masterclass on a Spinning Track
- Debutant Asif Afridi’s Late Surge
- Stubbs Stands Firm for South Africa
- What This Means for the Test
Keshav Maharaj’s Historic Seven-Wicket Haul
Keshav Maharaj made history at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, becoming the first visiting spinner to claim seven wickets in a single innings at this venue . His figures of 7 for 102 were instrumental in bowling out Pakistan for 333 on a pitch that offered significant turn and variable bounce .
This performance marked Maharaj’s 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, further cementing his status as South Africa’s premier slow bowler in subcontinental conditions . His ability to extract sharp turn and maintain relentless accuracy proved too much for the Pakistani middle order.
38-Year-Old Debutant Asif Afridi Keeps Pakistan in the Game
Just when South Africa looked to be building a solid reply, Pakistan found a surprising hero in Asif Afridi. The 38-year-old off-spinner, playing his first Test match, removed two key South African batsmen in the final session of the day .
Afridi’s late strikes brought the hosts back into the match, injecting fresh energy into a contest that Maharaj’s brilliance had momentarily tilted in South Africa’s favor . His debut, coming at an age when most cricketers are contemplating retirement, is a testament to perseverance and late-blooming talent.
Tristan Stubbs Anchors South Africa’s Reply
Despite the late wobbles, South Africa ended the day at 185 for 4, trailing Pakistan by 148 runs. The backbone of their innings was an unbeaten 68 from Tristan Stubbs, who displayed remarkable composure against both pace and the newly introduced spin of Afridi .
Stubbs, along with Tony de Zorzi, stitched together a crucial partnership that steadied the ship after the early losses. Their resilience ensured that South Africa remains in a competitive position heading into the third day.
Rawalpindi Test: A Battle of Spin and Nerve
The second Test between Pakistan and South Africa is shaping up to be a classic battle of spin and grit. Maharaj’s historic performance has set a high benchmark, but Asif Afridi’s dream debut has given the hosts a fighting chance .
With the pitch expected to deteriorate further, the role of the spinners will only become more critical. Both teams will be looking to their slow bowlers to dictate the terms in what promises to be a thrilling contest.
Key Match Stats
| Player | Team | Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Keshav Maharaj | South Africa | 7/102 (Bowling) |
| Asif Afridi | Pakistan | 2/?? (Bowling, Debut) |
| Tristan Stubbs | South Africa | 68* (Batting) |
| Pakistan | – | 333 all out |
| South Africa | – | 185/4 (Day 2) |