A signature fighting Dean Elgar knock is needed in Karachi after South Africa lost two early wickets in the first session of the 1st Test against Pakistan, writes Khalid Mohidin.
When the cameras glided over the strip after the toss, the bare patches were evident instantly on the wicket. A turning pitch for sure was prepared in Karachi.
This was evident in the Proteas’ initial selection which saw them opt for 3 spinners, but with Tabraiz Shamsi suffering a back spasm in the warm-up, it meant that he was replaced by Lungi Ngidi.
The Proteas opted to bat, as expected in a subcontinent clash, with the aim being to put a big total on the board and set the tone for the match.
This plan was hampered by two early wickets.
Aiden Markram failed to leave a delivery angling across him, and his edge off a defensive shot was collected by an excellent diving catch from debutant Imran Butt at second slip. Shaheen Afridi opened up his account to give Pakistan the start they hoped for.
An unnecessary run out in the 16th over, saw Dean Elgar send Rassie van der Dussen back after a confident call from the latter who hit the ball directly to mid-off. No run there and a gift to Pakistan as SA were reduced to 62-2.
Elgar was left to save the session once again, and he answered the call, with the aim of getting himself to a fighting half-century, a 16th in his career. He went into lunch on 46 off 76 balls with 7 fours to his name.
He has been excellent with the cover drive scoring three fours with the shot, but showed some patience by leaving well and playing a defensive game when needed.
He will need support from Faf du Plessis, as the Proteas’ experienced heads must step up to turn the contest after the early advantage went to Pakistan.
Photo: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix
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