Mon Oct 13 04:20:00 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary of the provided text and a rewrite as a news article:

**Summary:**

Pakistan ended Day 1 of the first Test against South Africa in Lahore in a strong position, reaching 313/5. Solid batting performances, including half-centuries from Imam-ul-Haq, captain Shan Masood, Mohammad Rizwan, and Salman Agha, anchored the innings. Imam fell just short of a century. Babar Azam failed to impress. Rizwan and Agha forged a century partnership to see out the day. South Africa’s Muthusamy took two wickets, while Harmer, Subrayen and Rabada claimed one each.

**News Article:**

**Pakistan’s Batsmen Dominate Day 1 Against South Africa Despite Azam Failing**

*Sports Desk, [City, State – if known, otherwise just: Lahore, Pakistan]*

Pakistan finished the first day of the first Test match against South Africa in a commanding position, reaching 313/5 at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday. A strong batting display, highlighted by half-centuries from four batsmen, put the home side in control, although the dismissal of star batsman Babar Azam was a setback.

After winning the toss and electing to bat, Pakistan lost opener Abdullah Shafique early. However, Imam-ul-Haq and captain Shan Masood stabilized the innings with a partnership of 161 runs. Masood was dismissed for a well-made 76, while Imam fell agonizingly short of a century, departing for 93.

Babar Azam’s dismissal for 23 was disappointing for Pakistani fans, as he was expected to contribute a big score on the batting-friendly pitch. Saud Shakeel followed without scoring, leaving Pakistan at 199/5.

Mohammad Rizwan (62 not out) and Salman Agha (52 not out) then combined to form a resolute partnership of 114 runs, steering Pakistan to a comfortable position by the close of play.

South Africa’s Senuran Muthusamy was the pick of the bowlers, taking two wickets. Simon Harmer, Prenelan Subrayen and Kagiso Rabada each claimed a single wicket.

Pakistan will look to build on this strong foundation on Day 2, while South Africa will aim to restrict the scoring and claw their way back into the match.

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