South Africa v Pakistan: Ryan Rickelton scores 259 as hosts post 615 in second Test

Sun Jan 05 09:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Rickelton’s Mammoth 259 Propels South Africa to Dominance Against Pakistan

**Cape Town, South Africa –** Ryan Rickelton smashed a stunning 259, the highest score by a South African against Pakistan since 2012, powering South Africa to a commanding position on day two of the second Test at Newlands. His innings, a career-best and his first as a Test opener, propelled South Africa to a massive 615 all out. This total is the second-highest ever against Pakistan and their highest against any opposition since 2020.

Rickelton’s monumental knock was complemented by centuries from captain Temba Bavuma (106) and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne (100), both registering their fourth Test tons. Marco Jansen (62) and Keshav Maharaj (40) also contributed valuable lower-order runs. Mohammad Abbas and Salman Ali Agha each claimed three wickets for Pakistan.

In response, Pakistan ended the day precariously positioned at 64-3, still a massive 551 runs behind. Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen each took a wicket apiece early on, dismissing key batsmen Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel for ducks. Babar Azam remained unbeaten on 31 at the close of play.

South Africa, currently leading the two-match series 1-0, are firmly in control heading into day three. Rickelton’s innings will be remembered as a landmark achievement, placing him joint-seventh on the list of highest Test scores by a South African.