It wasn’t quite the expected slaughter but Pakistan comfortably won the first Test of the series.
Image Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
South Africa will be determined to ensure that they prevent Pakistan posting their first-ever home series win against a visiting Proteas side.
To Win Match
Pakistan 83/100
Draw 4/1
South Africa 2/1
Pakistan vs South Africa | 4 February – 8 February 2021 | Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
Pakistan
Nauman Ali and Yasir Shah dominated the Proteas batting in the second innings of the first Test, and it will be no surprise if one or both of them are introduced early when South Africa bats.
Fawad Alam showed tremendous form to pull Pakistan out of the fire and is in the form of his life. Azhar Ali looked decent while Babar Azam is yet to find his best form.
Pakistan must be aware that things could so easily have gone awry in Karachi were it not for their lower order fightback and two Proteas batting collapses.
Shaheen Afridi could also be dangerous if he gets the ball in his hand on the first morning of the Test in Rawalpindi.
South Africa
Former skipper Faf du Plessis and current captain Quinton de Kock are under pressure to produce results after enduring a disappointing first outing.
For Aiden Markram, Rassie van der Dussen and Dean Elgar there were redeeming moments, but all three will want to kick on if they are able to settle in.
Kagiso Rabada showed flashes of brilliance in the first Test and should be a big threat while the Proteas might consider weakening their lower-order batting in order to accommodate Tabraiz Shamsi.
With the pitch likely to offer a little for the seamers up front Anrich Nortje and Rabada will need to use the new ball wisely and do some damage to the hosts.
The Proteas need to find a way to string their good sessions together to put pressure on Pakistan.
Verdict: Pakistan 83/100
It might be close but it should be Pakistan.
Written by James Richardson.
