In a stunning turnaround, Senuran Muthusamy ripped through the Pakistan batting order on day two of the opening Test. Pakistan, cruising at 362 for 5, faltered dramatically under Muthusamy’s inspired bowling. The left-arm spinner was instrumental in the host’s collapse, snatching six wickets for 117 runs. His spell included an exceptional over where he dismissed three batsmen, including key contributors, effectively ending Pakistan’s aspirations of a massive first-innings score. The dramatic loss of five wickets for just 16 runs left Pakistan all out for 378. This maiden five-wicket haul for Muthusamy marks a significant personal achievement and injects crucial optimism into the South African camp. The visitors now face the daunting task of a strong batting performance on a difficult pitch to challenge Pakistan’s lead.
