Oct, 12 2025
When Shan Masood, captain of Pakistan national cricket team won the toss at Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, October 12, 2025, the atmosphere was electric. The venue hosted the first Test of the Pakistan vs South Africa seriesGaddafi Stadium, Lahore as part of the World Test Championship 2025‑2027 cycle. South Africa national cricket team, led by stand‑in captain Aiden Markram, were on the field without regular skipper Temba Bavuma, who was sidelined with a calf strain.
Day One – A Roller‑Coaster Start
The first over belonged to South Africa’s spearhead pacer Kagiso Rabada. His third ball whizzed in, caught the inside‑edge of Abdullah Shafique, and clattered into the pads – an LBW that left Shafique on a duck. That early wicket set a nervous tone.
Masood and Imam‑ul‑Haq steadied the ship, stitching together a 161‑run second‑wicket stand. Imam, who was 29, played a patient 93, peppered with singles and the occasional two. Masood, the 35‑year‑old skipper, added 76, showcasing why he’s still trusted with the middle order.
By tea, Pakistan’s score read 313 for 5. The night‑watchmen Mohammad Rizwan (62*) and Salman Ali Agha (52*) forged an unbeaten 114‑run partnership that rescued the innings from a potential collapse.
Key Performances and Partnerships
- Imam‑ul‑Haq – 93 runs (174 balls)
- Shan Masood – 76 runs (122 balls)
- Mohammad Rizwan – 62* (71 balls)
- Salman Ali Agha – 52* (58 balls)
- Babar Azam – 29 runs on his Test return
While Babar Azam’s 29 looked modest, his presence was a reminder that the Pakistani lineup still has world‑class talent waiting to fire. The return of the former captain after missing the Asia Cup added a narrative thread that will likely dominate talk in the dressing rooms.
South Africa’s Bowling Strategy – Spin Over Seam
Unlike a typical New Zealand‑style seamer on a green, the Lahore pitch was dry, promising turn as the days wore on. South Africa’s trio of spinners – Prenelan Subrayen, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy – were given the ball early.
Muthusamy’s late‑over burst before tea was the highlight: he claimed the wickets of Saud Shakeel and Babar Azam in consecutive deliveries, reducing Pakistan’s confidence. In total, the South African bowlers finished with the following figures: Rabada 1/43, Subrayen 1/45, Harmer 1/75, and Muthusamy 2/64.
What This Means for the World Test Championship Race
Pakistan entered the match after a disappointing finish at the bottom of the previous WTC cycle. A strong home performance could catapult them back into contention, especially with three wins on spin‑friendly wickets in their recent run.
South Africa, the current holders of the WTC mace, will be eager to defend their title. Their preparation at Pretoria’s High Performance Centre on low‑bounce wickets reflects a strategic gamble – hoping the Lahore surface will bite later.
Looking Ahead to Day Two
Day two kicks off at 5:00 AM GMT on Monday, October 13. Analysts expect the pitch to deteriorate, offering more assistance to the spinners. South Africa will likely target early wickets, using their trio to pressurise the lower order while Rabada hopes to extract swing in the morning.
For Pakistan, the challenge is to deepen the partnership between Rizwan and Agha, or perhaps accelerate the scoring rate to set a formidable total. The narrative is clear: a good start could set the tone for a series‑leveling win, while a wobble might hand the defending champs an early advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Lahore pitch affect the strategies of both teams?
The dry, slow‑turning surface favours spin after the first day. Pakistan, accustomed to such conditions, built their innings around solid partnerships, while South Africa deployed three spinners early to exploit any turn and force mistakes.
What impact does Babar Azam’s return have on Pakistan’s chances?
Even though he managed only 29, Azam’s presence restores confidence in the top order for future games. His form will be crucial in the second innings when Pakistan needs to post a big total to stay in the WTC race.
Who are the likely match‑winners on day two?
If the pitch cracks, South Africa’s spinners – especially Muthusamy – could become the decisive factor. Conversely, Pakistan’s lower order, anchored by Rizwan’s steady scoring, might extend the total enough to neutralise the spin threat.
What does this result mean for the World Test Championship standings?
A solid first‑innings total keeps Pakistan in contention for points, especially after a poor previous cycle. South Africa, as defending champions, cannot afford a sizeable deficit if they hope to retain the mace.
When is the next Test in the series scheduled?
The second Test is slated for a week later at the same venue, giving both sides a chance to adjust tactics based on the pitch’s evolution and today’s performances.
sanjay sharma
October 12, 2025 AT 22:16Masood’s 76 provided the platform for a solid 313‑5, especially after the early loss of Shafique.