Wed Oct 22 08:50:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Pakistan vs. South Africa Test: Debutant Spinner Afridi Rocks Proteas on Day 2
Rawalpindi, Pakistan – October 21, 2025 – A late-innings surge by debutant Asif Afridi, a 38-year-old left-arm spinner, put Pakistan back in control of the second Test against South Africa on Tuesday. Afridi claimed the crucial wickets of Tony de Zorzi (55) and Dewald Brevis, derailing the Proteas’ progress and leaving them struggling at 185-4 at stumps on Day 2. South Africa trails Pakistan by 148 runs.
De Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs (68 not out) had earlier formed a resilient 113-run partnership, frustrating the Pakistani spin attack of Noman Ali and Sajid Khan. However, Afridi’s intervention shifted the momentum, trapping de Zorzi leg before wicket after a successful review and then inducing an edge from Brevis.
Earlier in the day, South Africa’s Keshav Maharaj showcased his spin prowess, claiming a remarkable 7-102 to dismiss Pakistan for 333 in their first innings. Pakistan’s lower order collapsed dramatically against Maharaj after Saud Shakeel (66) and Agha (45) had built a solid sixth-wicket partnership.
Shaheen Shah Afridi, freshly appointed as Pakistan’s ODI captain, bowled a fiery opening spell, removing Ryan Rickelton early. Stubbs, playing in his 12th Test, displayed admirable patience, anchoring the South African innings and raising hopes for the Proteas alongside de Zorzi. Kyle Verreynne will resume on 10 alongside Stubbs.
South Africa will need to regroup and mount a strong fightback on Day 3 to overcome the deficit and level the series. The abrasive Rawalpindi wicket is proving to be a challenge for both teams, and the remainder of the Test promises to be a tense and exciting contest.
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