Babar Azam and Shan Masood etched their names into Pakistan’s Test cricket history with a remarkable 205-run opening partnership against South Africa in Cape Town. Their partnership shattered the previous record of 133 runs, set by Yasir Hameed and Younis Khan during the 2006-07 season.
Pakistan faced a challenging situation after being bowled out for just 194 in their first innings, trailing South Africa’s imposing total of 615. With Saim Ayub injured, Babar stepped up to open the batting alongside Shan Masood. Together, they weathered the storm against a formidable South African bowling attack, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen.
Babar played with his trademark composure, scoring 81 runs, while Masood held firm with an unbeaten 102. Their partnership not only set a new record but also lifted Pakistan’s hopes of salvaging a draw in the two-match series.
Pakistan’s first innings had seen Babar Azam as the standout performer with 58 runs. South Africa had dominated with centuries from their top-order batsmen. In the follow-on innings, Pakistan looked headed for an innings defeat, but Babar and Masood’s stand offered a glimmer of hope. The pair combined cautious defense with some aggressive strokes, showing resilience against the Proteas’ bowlers.
As Day 3 ended, Pakistan trailed by 208 runs, with Babar dismissed by Marco Jansen in the 47th over. With Masood and Khurram Shahzad still at the crease, Pakistan remains hopeful of closing the gap and setting South Africa a challenging target for the chase.
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