Pakistan’s veteran spinner Noman Ali achieved a historic milestone on Tuesday during the first Test against South Africa at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. The 39-year-old left-arm spinner surpassed the long-standing record of Iqbal Qasim for the most five-wicket hauls by a Pakistani left-arm bowler in Test cricket.
Delivering a brilliant spell, Noman Ali claimed six wickets in the innings, helping Pakistan secure a strong first-innings lead of 109 runs. This performance marked his ninth five-wicket haul in Tests, moving him past Iqbal Qasim’s record of eight, which had stood for decades.
With this achievement, Noman Ali now leads an elite group of Pakistan’s left-arm spinners. The list includes Pervez Sajjad with three five-fors, and Abdur Rehman and Zulfiqar Babar, who have two each. His remarkable consistency and control continue to make him one of Pakistan’s key assets in red-ball cricket.
South Africa began the third day on 216 for six, hoping to cut down Pakistan’s lead. Tony de Zorzi fought valiantly, scoring a determined century—his second in Test cricket. However, his innings came to an end on 104, dismissed by Noman, who kept striking at crucial moments. De Zorzi’s knock featured 10 boundaries and two sixes.
Off-spinner Sajid Khan provided solid support from the other end, removing Senuran Muthusamy early in the session. The lower order could not withstand Pakistan’s spin pressure as South Africa were dismissed for 269 before lunch. Simon Harmer remained unbeaten on 19.
Noman wrapped up the innings with exceptional figures of 6 for 113, while Sajid Khan took 3 for 98, and Salman Ali Agha claimed one wicket. His record-breaking spell not only placed him in Pakistan’s cricketing history but also strengthened the team’s position in the match.
In other news read more about: Noman Ali Climbs to Top Five in ICC Test Rankings
