NEW DELHI: After being reduced to 235/8 in response to Pakistan’s 333 in the first innings, South Africa staged a remarkable comeback, with the last two wickets adding 169 runs to give the visitors a crucial 71-run lead on Day 3 of the second Test in Rawalpindi on Wednesday.

Rabada’s Heroics at No. 11

Kagiso Rabada produced a stunning counterattack, smashing his highest Test score of 71 — also the highest by any South African batter at No. 11. His knock, which came off just 61 deliveries, was instrumental in frustrating the Pakistan bowlers and shifting the momentum of the match. Rabada’s innings was also the fifth-highest score ever by a No. 11 batter in Test history.

Sensational 10th wicket stand

Rabada found an ideal partner in Senuran Muthusamy, who stood firm at the other end with a composed 89 off 155 balls. The pair stitched together a 98-run stand for the tenth wicket, defying Pakistan’s attack for nearly 20 overs and taking South Africa past the 400-run mark. Their partnership not only wiped out the deficit but also put the visitors in a position of command heading into the final two days.

Earlier, Aiden Markram (32), Ryan Rickelton (14), and Tony de Zorzi (55) made brief starts, but the middle order faltered against the spin duo of Asif Afridi and Noman Ali. Asif was the pick of the bowlers, claiming six wickets for 79 runs in 34.3 overs, while Noman chipped in with two important strikes.

From 235/8, South Africa’s lower order turned the game on its head. Keshav Maharaj’s attacking 30 and Muthusamy’s determined approach began the recovery, before Rabada unleashed a flurry of boundaries to leave the hosts visibly frustrated. His attacking intent forced Pakistan to spread the field, easing pressure on his partner and allowing South Africa to dictate the tempo.

By the time Rabada fell to Asif Afridi, the damage was done. The 98-run partnership for the final wicket marked one of the finest fightbacks by South Africa’s tail in recent memory, giving them a valuable first-innings advantage in a crucial Test of the series.