RAWALPINDI – Defending champions South Africa made a strong comeback on Thursday, securing victory in the second Test against Pakistan at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The win helped the Proteas level the two-match Test series 1-1.
Chasing a modest 68-run target, South Africa reached the finish line comfortably with eight wickets in hand. Captain Aiden Markram led from the front, scoring a quick 42 off 45 balls, while Ryan Rickelton contributed an unbeaten 25 to seal the match.
Earlier, off-spinner Simon Harmer produced a remarkable bowling spell, taking six wickets for 50 runs. His effort helped dismiss Pakistan for just 138 in their second innings, setting up an easy chase for the visitors.
The 36-year-old Harmer’s performance not only earned him his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket but also marked a major milestone — completing 1,000 first-class wickets. His spell proved decisive on the deteriorating Rawalpindi pitch, leaving Pakistan struggling from the start of the fourth day.
Pakistan resumed at 94-4 but could only add 44 more runs. Harmer dealt the first blow of the day, trapping captain Babar Azam leg-before wicket after his 30th Test half-century. Hopes of a Pakistani comeback faded quickly as Harmer dismissed Mohammad Rizwan for 18 and Noman Ali for a duck, before Keshav Maharaj cleaned up the tail.
Maharaj also shone with the ball, taking key wickets of Salman Agha (28) and Sajid Khan (13), ensuring South Africa maintained full control.
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The victory marks a crucial turnaround for the Proteas, who struggled in the opening Test. With this win, South Africa reaffirmed their resilience and depth, setting the tone for upcoming international fixtures and restoring confidence in their Test squad.
