“As the day went on, the turn minimised substantially,” said Proteas spinner, Keshav Maharaj, on Day 1 of the second Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Rawalpindi.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Pakistan were reduced to 22/3, largely due to an inspired bowling performance from Keshav Maharaj, who picked the two crucial wickets of Imran Butt (15) and Azhar Ali (0).
Maharaj attributed the initial control the South African bowlers had over the Pakistani top order to moisture because “the ball sticks in the wicket a little bit more.”
As the day went on, however, the moisture reduced significantly, making it easier for Pakistani captain, Babar Azam, and Fawad Alam to build an unbeaten partnership of 123 runs.
With questions surrounding the behaviour of the pitch, Maharaj conceded, “Everyone was a bit confused about what to expect.” “We don’t know if it will deteriorate going forward,” continued Maharaj.
