De Zorzi (right) shaking hands after yesterdays' test with Muthusamy at the end of the game. Image credit: Flashscore
South Africa closed on 216-6 in reply to Pakistan’s 378 all out, with De Zorzi standing tall amid regular wickets as the visitors struggled against Pakistan’s spinners on a deteriorating Gaddafi Stadium pitch.
De Zorzi, who survived several close reviews, showed bravery and composure to hold the innings together, while others fell advantageously around him. He will resume on day three with Senuran Muthusamy, as Proteas face an uphill battle to avoid a significant first-innings deficit.
Earlier, Pakistan had resumed the morning in a dominant position at 313-5, with Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha looking to push toward a big total. But left-arm spinner Muthusamy briefly gave the Proteas hope, taking three wickets in four balls and finishing with a career-best 6-117 as Pakistan collapsed from 362-5 to 378 all out.
Rizwan top-scored with 93, falling just short of his century after an excellent 163-run partnership with Salman for the sixth wicket.
However, Pakistan’s spinners soon hit back, applying pressure on Proteas batters. The visitors slipped from 174-3 to 216-6 by the close, with Babar Azam’s sharp catch dismissing Ryan Rickelton for 71 after a promising stand with De Zorzi.
With Pakistan in control and the pitch offering increasing turn and uneven bounce, South Africa will need something special on day three to stay in the game.
About the Author
