After being bowled out for 220 in under 70 overs on Day 1 of the 1st Test against Pakistan, Kagiso Rabada took 2 wickets in the final session as the hosts were reduced to 33-4, writes Khalid Mohidin.
Rabada’s performance was key to the Proteas’ fightback, especially after a poor batting performance.
Dean Elgar fought hard for his 16th half-century and was the Proteas’ top scorer, racking up majority of his runs in the first session of the day.
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The second session saw a top 6 collapse, as the Proteas were reduced to 179-6 at tea, with Elgar managing to complete his 16th half-century.
There was some resistance after the tea break. George Linde’s 35 off 64 balls and Kagiso Rabada’s 21 snapped up some pride for the visitors. But only slightly disguised what was a terrible batting performance by Proteas who were knocked out for 220.
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Collectively, Pakistan bowled well with Yasir Shah topping the wickets column with 3-54, but poor decision making with two run-outs and dodgy shot selection was behind the Proteas batting woes on a pitch that needed patience and fight.
The Proteas’ bowling plans were clear. Hit it short of the length and aim it at the stumps. Kagiso Rabada managed to get an early wicket by bowling Abid Ali with a beautiful inswinger.
The variable bounce worked in Rabada’s favour. He got his second wicket when a length delivery popped off Imran Butt’s glove to leg gully.
Keshav Maharaj then trapped Pakistan’s best batsman and captain Babar Azam (7) lbw in what was a crucial wicket for the visitors, which was evident in the celebrations.
Anrich Nortje then added to Pakistan’s misery, he removed the nightwatchman Shaheen Afridi for a duck.
Pakistan finished the day on 33-4.
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