Controversy and Collapse Mark Eventful Day 1 in Pakistan vs South Africa Test

Day 1 of the first Test between Pakistan and South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium was packed with drama, strong partnerships, and a bit of controversy — the latter sparked by former Pakistan captain and PCB chairman Ramiz Raja.

Raja, part of the commentary panel, was caught in an awkward moment when a remark he made off-microphone was picked up by the broadcast. As Babar Azam was given out caught behind off Senuran Muthusamy on the first ball of the 49th over, he immediately signaled for a review. Raja, not realizing his comment was audible, was heard saying, “yeh out hain, drama karega” (This is out, now he will be doing drama). However, replays confirmed there was no edge, and the on-field decision was overturned. The comment, though not aired through the official commentary feed, quickly circulated on social media, stirring backlash among fans.

On the field, Pakistan won the toss and opted to bat first. Openers Imam-ul-Haq and skipper Shan Masood laid a solid foundation with a 161-run stand. Both looked poised for centuries but fell short — Imam for 93 and Masood for 76. Their dismissals triggered a middle-order collapse, as Pakistan slid from 163/1 to 199/5 in a matter of overs.

Babar Azam came to the crease amid rising pressure. Although he survived the early scare via DRS, his innings never quite settled. He looked tentative and was eventually dismissed for 23 off 48 balls by off-spinner Simon Harmer in the 60th over.

However, the hosts recovered well thanks to a crucial unbeaten 114-run partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha. The duo ended the day at 313/5, with Rizwan on 62 and Agha on 52. Both batters tackled South Africa’s spin-heavy attack — featuring three spinners — with impressive footwork and composure.

South Africa, missing regular captain Temba Bavuma and led by stand-in skipper Aiden Markram, are aiming for their 11th consecutive Test win. This match also kicks off Pakistan’s 2025-27 World Test Championship campaign — a chance for redemption after finishing at the bottom last cycle.