the Boxing day test The match kicked off at Centurion's SuperSport Park with all the drama and excitement one would expect from a high-stakes cricket match between South Africa and Pakistan. The day started with both teams wanting to assert their dominance, but it was Pakistan's fate Khurram Shehzad Who stole the early spotlight with a delivery that will be talked about for days.
Khurram Shahzad's dismissal of Tony De Zorzi is astonishing
In a moment that summed up the beauty of Test cricket, Shahzad dismissed South Africa's opener Tony De Zorzi With a delivery that can only be described as “beauty.” Shahzad, known for his ability to swing the ball, sent a swinging delivery that fooled De Zorzi, and he straightened enough after the pitch to beat his defensive shot and hit the stumps. This early breakthrough for Pakistan, with De Zorzi scoring just two, set the tone for what would be a difficult day for the South African batting line-up.
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— Crickistan Media (@Crickistanmedia) December 26, 2024
also READ: Twitter Reactions: South Africa rules first day at Centurion as Dane Patterson and Corbin Bush destroy Pakistan batting
A day of fast bowling and tactical nuances
Notably, the opening day was dominated by fast bowling from both sides, with the pitch providing enough assistance to keep the batsmen on their toes. Pakistan, who chose to bat first, were bowled out for 211, thanks to a brilliant bowling display by South Africa.
Dane Paterson was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 5 for 62, supported by Corbin Bushwho on his debut took 4 wickets. Kamran GhulamThe batting 54 was the highlight for Pakistan, offering some resistance in the middle order.
In response, South Africa's innings did not start as planned, losing two early wickets to Shehzad's pace and accuracy. but, Aiden MarkramAn unbeaten 47 helped stabilize the innings side by side Temba Bavumaas South Africa ended the day on 82 for 3, still 129 runs behind. Today's match was a great contest, with both teams showing that they are able to take advantage of the circumstances and respond when cornered.