On the third day of the Lahore Test, Pakistan took control of the match by gaining a strong 109-run lead against South Africa.
The home team’s spin attack proved too good for the visitors as Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan dominated the innings. Nauman took six wickets with his sharp left-arm spin while Sajid added three more, helping Pakistan bowl out South Africa for 269 runs.
South Africa’s innings was anchored by Tony de Zorzi, who played a brilliant knock of 104 runs, showing great patience and timing.
He was well supported by Ryan Rickelton, who scored a solid 71, helping their team avoid a complete collapse. However, once the partnership broke, Pakistan’s spinners quickly wrapped up the tail.
Earlier in the match, Pakistan had set a strong foundation by scoring 378 runs in their first innings. Imam-ul-Haq and Agha Salman both missed their centuries by a few runs, each scoring 93. Shan Masood added 76 while Mohammad Rizwan contributed 75 with his usual attacking style.
South Africa’s left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy was the standout bowler, claiming six wickets, the best figures of his Test career.
As the match entered its fourth day, Pakistan looked confident to build on their lead and push for victory. The Test, part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 has been full of exciting performances, with spin playing a key role on the turning Lahore pitch. Fans are now waiting to see how Pakistan’s second innings unfolds.
