The Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 in Lahore produced a sensational third day filled with drama, collapses, and brilliant spin bowling. With 16 wickets tumbling in a single day, the contest swung wildly before Pakistan set South Africa a challenging target of 277 runs to win. By stumps, the visitors were 51/2, still needing 226 more runs on a treacherous pitch.
🌅 Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025: De Zorzi’s Century and Noman Ali’s Spin Magic
Resuming on 82 overnight, Tony de Zorzi continued his rich form, crafting a fluent century in difficult conditions. However, once he fell soon after reaching the landmark, South Africa’s lower order crumbled. Pakistan’s veteran spinner Noman Ali ran through the lineup, finishing with a sensational 6 for 112 as the Proteas were dismissed for 269, giving Pakistan a 109-run lead.
Despite the advantage, Pakistan’s second innings began disastrously. Imam-ul-Haq, who had earlier made 93, was stumped for a duck by Simon Harmer. Skipper Shan Masood followed soon after, leaving Pakistan reeling at 36/2 before lunch.
⚡ Pakistan Collapse Despite Babar Azam’s Efforts
After the interval, Abdullah Shafique and Babar Azam attempted to rebuild. Babar struck a hat-trick of boundaries off Senuran Muthusamy, displaying intent and control. Alongside Saud Shakeel, he helped Pakistan recover with a steady 55-run stand. However, Rabada’s clever pace variation trapped Babar for 42, sparking another collapse.
Shakeel, after looking comfortable for his 38, fell to a mistimed slog-sweep — and what followed was chaos. Pakistan’s final five wickets fell for just 17 runs in 6.3 overs, as Muthusamy bagged another five-wicket haul (5-57) and Harmer supported with 4-51. Pakistan were bowled out for 167, setting South Africa a target of 277.
🔥 South Africa’s Chase Begins Cautiously
Chasing 277 on a deteriorating surface in the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025, the visitors started carefully. Aiden Markram was the first to go, bowled by Noman Ali for a low score. Noman then struck again in quick succession, removing Wiaan Mulder, leaving South Africa at 20/2.
However, Ryan Rickelton (29)* and Tony de Zorzi (17)* steadied the innings, showing grit and patience to survive till stumps. Rickelton was given a lifeline after a dropped catch at short leg, but the pair ensured no further damage before close of play.
🧩 Pakistan Hold the Edge, But Match Still in the Balance
With South Africa needing 226 more runs and Pakistan hunting for eight wickets, the final two days of the Pakistan vs South Africa Test 2025 promise a tense finish. On a surface that’s offering sharp turn and inconsistent bounce, Noman Ali and Abrar Ahmed will be Pakistan’s trump cards, while South Africa’s hopes rest on De Zorzi and Rickelton building a long partnership.
The first Test in Lahore has already lived up to its billing as one of the most thrilling contests of the season — full of fight, skill, and drama.
📊 Brief Scores
Pakistan 378 & 167 (Babar Azam 42; Senuran Muthusamy 5-57, Simon Harmer 4-51)
South Africa 269 & 51/2 (Ryan Rickelton 29*, Tony de Zorzi 17*; Noman Ali 2-20)
Pakistan lead by 226 runs
🔗 Related Links
- Read full match stats on ESPNCricinfo
- Follow Pakistan Cricket updates on PCB Official Site
