Mon Jan 06 13:51:16 UTC 2025: ## Heated Exchange Mars Pakistan’s Fightback in Cape Town Test
**Cape Town, South Africa –** Day three of the New Year’s Test between South Africa and Pakistan at Newlands was marked by both a thrilling fightback from the visitors and a controversial on-field incident. A heated exchange between Pakistan captain Babar Azam and South African bowler Wiaan Mulder overshadowed Pakistan’s impressive recovery from a massive first-innings deficit.
After being forced to follow-on following a first-innings total of 194 (where Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj took eight wickets between them, giving South Africa a 421-run lead), Pakistan displayed remarkable resilience. Shan Masood and Babar Azam forged a record-breaking 205-run opening partnership – the highest ever for Pakistan while following on – defying the South African attack. Masood notched his sixth Test century (102 not out at the close of play), ending a recent slump in form, while Babar contributed a fluent 81.
However, the partnership was punctuated by a contentious moment. During the 32nd over of Pakistan’s second innings, Mulder aggressively threw the ball at Babar’s pads after fielding a drive, sparking a heated exchange. The incident escalated when the wicketkeeper attempted a run-out as Babar reacted to the throw. Umpires intervened to calm the players, with Aiden Markram and Shan Masood also attempting to defuse the situation.
Despite the South African’s attempts to wrap up the match quickly by enforcing the follow-on, Pakistan’s resolute batting left them trailing by 208 runs at the close of play. The match, marked by 23 no-balls conceded by South Africa, promises a tense and exciting conclusion over the final two days.
First Piper 