South African spinner of Indian origin, Senuran Muthusamy, produced a career-best performance to dismantle Pakistan’s batting lineup in the first Test. His remarkable spell of 6 for 117 restricted Pakistan to 378 on the second day. The highlight of his spell came with a triple-wicket maiden over, where he delivered three full-pitched beauties to turn the tide of the match.
Pakistan, who were cruising at 362 for 5, suddenly found themselves reeling at 362 for 8, unable to counter Muthusamy’s controlled spin and precision. His performance not only lifted South Africa’s spirits but also displayed his growing importance in the side’s bowling attack.
Pakistan’s Strong Start Falters
Pakistan began their innings with promise, building strong foundations through partnerships on a dry and unpredictable pitch. Imam-ul-Haq, returning to Test cricket after nearly two years, played confidently and scored 93, narrowly missing out on a century. Alongside him, captain Shan Masood contributed a fluent 76, with both adding a 161-run stand that frustrated South Africa early on.
Their efforts placed Pakistan in a commanding position by the end of day one. However, the next day witnessed a dramatic shift. Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan tried to steady the innings with a resilient 163-run partnership.
Rizwan’s well-composed 75 added stability, while Agha appeared destined for a hundred. Yet, Muthusamy’s persistence paid off as he broke their stand and triggered a sudden collapse.
Collapse and South Africa’s Confident Start
Once Rizwan edged Muthusamy behind the stumps, Pakistan’s lower order fell apart in quick succession. The spinner’s triple-wicket over saw him dismiss Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, with the latter caught brilliantly at slip by Aiden Markram, almost giving Muthusamy a hat-trick. “It was a perfect over, with great flight and control,” observers noted as the spinner worked his magic.
The final blow came when Agha Salman, after battling hard for his 93, attempted a big hit but ended up holing out to Muthusamy himself at mid-on. With the innings wrapped up at 378, South Africa made a cautious but confident start, reaching 10 for no loss in four overs.
Noman Ali and Shaheen Shah Afridi took the new ball, but the Proteas openers managed to survive the tricky phase. Muthusamy’s six-wicket haul stood as the defining moment of the day, giving South Africa the early advantage and marking one of the most memorable spells of his Test career.
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