Asif Afridi's Debut and Keshav Maharaj's Dominance in Rawalpindi Test

The second Test between Pakistan and South Africa at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has seen a dramatic turn of events, with South Africa dismissing Pakistan for 333 runs, largely due to Keshav Maharaj's exceptional bowling performance. Maharaj claimed seven wickets for 102 runs, marking his 12th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. Pakistan's innings was built on solid contributions from Shan Masood (87) and Saud Shakeel (66), but they faltered towards the end, losing their last five wickets for just 17 runs.

RFI (Radio France Internationale)Netizens react as Keshav Maharaj helps South Africa seize control despite Asif Afridi’s late strikes for Pakistan on Day 2 of the Rawalpindi TestMaharaj takes seven wickets with South Africa-Pakistan Test in balanceAsif Afridi hurts South Africa late on day twoExpress TribuneAfridi’s double strike keep Pakistan ahead despite Stubbs-De Zorzi resistance in Rawalpindi Test — KSportsWatchSecond oldest Pakistani cricketer, Asif Afridi makes Test debutExplained: Why Pakistan have handed a debut to 38-year-old spinner Asif Afridi

In response, South Africa ended day two at 185-4, trailing by 148 runs. The visitors found stability through a crucial 113-run partnership between Tristan Stubbs and Tony de Zorzi, who scored 68 and 55 runs, respectively. However, late strikes from debutant Asif Afridi, who took two wickets, including that of de Zorzi, kept Pakistan in contention.

Express TribuneAsif Afridi strikes twice to keep Pakistan on top at StumpsAsif Afridi hurts South Africa late on day twoAfridi’s double strike keep Pakistan ahead despite Stubbs-De Zorzi resistance in Rawalpindi Test — KSportsWatchRFI (Radio France Internationale)Maharaj takes seven wickets with South Africa-Pakistan Test in balanceNetizens react as Keshav Maharaj helps South Africa seize control despite Asif Afridi’s late strikes for Pakistan on Day 2 of the Rawalpindi TestExplained: Why Pakistan have handed a debut to 38-year-old spinner Asif AfridiSecond oldest Pakistani cricketer, Asif Afridi makes Test debut

Asif Afridi made headlines by debuting at the age of 38 years and 299 days, becoming Pakistan's second-oldest Test debutant. His selection came after a six-month suspension due to a violation of the Pakistan Cricket Board's anti-corruption code. Afridi's performance in domestic cricket, particularly in the 2023/24 season where he took 53 wickets, earned him a spot in the national team. His debut was marked by taking two key wickets, showcasing his potential on the international stage.

Why Is Pakistani Test Debutant Asif Afridi Trending on Google?Explained: Why Pakistan have handed a debut to 38-year-old spinner Asif AfridiOldest Men's Test Debutants: 38-Year-Old Spinner Takes Second On Pakistan All-Time ListSecond oldest Pakistani cricketer, Asif Afridi makes Test debutPakistan Grants Test Debut to 39-Year-Old Asif Afridi Post Spot-Fixing BanAsif Afridi unleashed at 38 vs South Africa, becomes Pakistan’s second-oldest Test debutantAsif Afridi hurts South Africa late on day twoExpress TribuneMaharaj takes seven wickets with South Africa-Pakistan Test in balance

Keshav Maharaj's performance was pivotal in dismantling Pakistan's batting lineup. After taking two wickets on the first day, he continued to exert pressure on the Pakistani batsmen, dismissing Salman Agha (45) and Saud Shakeel (66) in quick succession. Maharaj's ability to exploit the dry conditions of the Rawalpindi pitch was evident, as he consistently tested the batters with his variations in flight and spin.

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Following the day's play, South African batting coach Ashwell Prince expressed satisfaction with Maharaj's performance, stating, "We knew these conditions are harder to bat, but I would say pretty good day for us and we need to build on that." Meanwhile, Pakistani batsman Saud Shakeel praised Afridi's efforts, noting, "I am really happy for Asif, who has done so well in domestic matches."

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Despite the promising performances, there are concerns regarding Pakistan's inability to convert solid starts into substantial totals. Critics point out that the lower order's collapse was detrimental, emphasizing the need for greater resilience in batting.

Afridi’s double strike keep Pakistan ahead despite Stubbs-De Zorzi resistance in Rawalpindi Test — KSportsWatch

As the match heads into day three, the focus will be on whether South Africa can build a lead and capitalize on their current position. Pakistan's bowlers, led by Afridi and Shaheen Shah Afridi, will aim to restrict the visitors and regain control of the match.

Second oldest Pakistani cricketer, Asif Afridi makes Test debut

• “We knew these conditions are harder to bat, but I would say pretty good day for us and we need to build on that.” — Ashwell Prince, South African batting coach

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• “I am really happy for Asif, who has done so well in domestic matches,” — Saud Shakeel, Pakistani batsman

RFI (Radio France Internationale)

This Test match remains finely balanced, with both teams vying for dominance as they navigate the challenges presented by the Rawalpindi pitch.

Second oldest Pakistani cricketer, Asif Afridi makes Test debut