Pakistan completed an emphatic 7-wicket victory over South Africa inside four days in the opening Test in Karachi on Friday (January 29).
After taking a first-innings lead of 158 runs, the hosts bowled out the Proteas for 245 in the second innings. The visitors were at 187/4 at stumps on Day 3, but their innings collapsed in the first session on Day 4. Opener Aiden Markram was the top-scorer with 74.
Debutant Nauman Ali was the stand-out bowler for Pakistan, claiming 5 wickets by conceding 35 runs in his 25.3 overs. Veteran leg-spinner Yasir Shah also picked 4 wickets in South Africa’s second innings.
Chasing 88 in the fourth innings, Pakistan rode on Azhar Ali’s unbeaten 31 and skipper Babar Azam’s 30 to overhaul the target quite comfortably.
Anrich Nortje (2-24) and Keshav Maharaj (1-12) shared the three wickets that fell in Pakistan’s second essay.
After the match, Pakistan cricket fraternity took to Twitter and lauded the home team on stunning victory.
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