Returning in Test whites after over nine months, Pakistan’s Babar Azam seemed to have his reflexes finely tuned as he pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss South Africa’s Ryan Rickelton in the first innings of the opening Test in Lahore on Monday, October 13.

Rickelton, who had looked in strong touch and was well set on 71 from 136 deliveries, nicked a delivery off part-timer Salman Ali Agha. Demonstrating remarkable agility, Babar managed to get his right hand under the ball and complete the catch in quick time. Interestingly, even Babar appeared surprised at his own execution, leaving spectators and commentators equally impressed by the sharp reflexes he displayed on the field.

SHARP ON THE FIELD, BATTING WOES CONTINUE

While Babar Azam showcased his alertness and athleticism on the field, his batting remains a concern for Pakistan. Coming in at No. 4, the former captain managed to get a promising start, showing glimpses of his class. However, he was eventually dismissed by Simon Harmer, trapped leg-before wicket, once again failing to convert a start into a substantial score.

Babar had not been part of Pakistan’s T20I squad that reached the final of the Asia Cup, and he will be eager to regain his form with the bat. His contributions will be critical if Pakistan is to have any hope of bouncing back after a disappointing display in the continental tournament. The team will be relying on him to provide stability in the middle order and lay a foundation for a competitive total against the visiting South Africans.

SPINNERS ONCE AGAIN DOMINATE

Continuing a familiar trend in recent home Tests, spin bowlers once again played a pivotal role for Pakistan. Noman Ali emerged as the standout bowler of the day, claiming four wickets from 27 overs, consistently troubling the South African batsmen with his variations and control. Sajid Khan also made an impact, chipping in with a key wicket, while Salman Ali Agha provided the breakthrough by dismissing Rickelton, preventing the batter from building a potentially match-defining innings.

By the end of day one, South Africa had reached 216/6, with Tony de Zorzi unbeaten on 81 from 140 balls. De Zorzi, alongside the lower-order batsmen, will now aim to add crucial runs and frustrate Pakistan’s spinners in the remaining innings. The visitors’ tail-enders will need to contribute collectively to push the total higher, ensuring the hosts do not gain too much of an upper hand in the opening Test.

With fielding highlights like Babar’s sensational catch and another day of spinner dominance, the match promises exciting contests in both departments, though Pakistan will be eager for better batting contributions if they are to set themselves up for a strong win in the series-opener.

– Ends