Wed Oct 22 10:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:
Harmer’s ‘Ball of the Century’ Sparks Excitement Ahead of India Tour
Rawalpindi, Pakistan – South African spinner Simon Harmer delivered what some are calling the “ball of the century” during the first day of the second Test against Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Stadium on Sunday, October 20. The mesmerizing delivery, which dismissed Pakistani opener Imam-ul-Haq, has cricket fans buzzing, particularly ahead of South Africa’s upcoming Test series in India.
In only his first over of the match, Harmer, bowling around the wicket, spun the ball prodigiously from well outside leg stump, leaving Imam-ul-Haq stunned as it crashed into his off stump, sending it cartwheeling. The dismissal sent shockwaves through the Rawalpindi Stadium.
The wicket ignited celebrations among the South African team and sparked online comparisons to the spin-friendly conditions expected in India. South Africa is scheduled to play a two-match Test series in Kolkata and Guwahati next month. Fans are already anticipating the impact of the Proteas’ spin attack, which is expected to include Harmer, Keshav Maharaj, and Senuran Muthusamy.
The spectacular delivery came as South Africa aims to level the series against Pakistan after losing the first Test by 93 runs. While Harmer’s early breakthrough in the second Test provided initial promise, Pakistan’s top order recovered well. Abdullah Shafique and captain Shan Masood both scored half-centuries, guiding their team to a comfortable position by the end of the day after Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat. Masood was particularly effective using his feet against the South African spinners who struggled to impose themselves after Harmer’s initial success. The Proteas will need to build on that early momentum to gain control of the match.
First Piper 