Bosch’s All-Round Brilliance on Debut
Corbin Bosch delivered a stellar performance on debut, propelling South Africa to a crucial 90-run first-innings lead against Pakistan on Day 2 of the first Test at Centurion. Bosch’s unbeaten 81 from the lower order, along with his impressive 4-63 on the opening day, showcased his all-round potential. Notably, he became the 25th player to take a wicket with his very first delivery in Test cricket.
Bosch Anchors the Tail to Boost South Africa’s Total
Walking in at number nine, Bosch played an attacking innings, smashing 15 boundaries and helping South Africa reach 301 before tea. His efforts, coupled with an invaluable 41-run partnership with Kagiso Rabada for the ninth wicket, thwarted Pakistan’s hopes of limiting the hosts to a modest lead.
After Rabada was dismissed for 13, Bosch found support from No. 11 batsman Dane Paterson. The duo added 47 runs for the final wicket, with Bosch reaching his maiden Test fifty in style and continuing his remarkable innings. The partnership ended when Paterson mistimed a shot off part-time spinner Saim Ayub, with Khurram Shahzad completing a challenging catch.
Markram Falls Short, Bavuma and Bedingham Dismissed Early
Earlier in the day, South Africa resumed their innings at 82-3 with opener Aiden Markram and captain Temba Bavuma at the crease. Markram, who appeared set for a century, was dismissed for 89 after gloving a short-pitched delivery from Khurram Shahzad to wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan.
Bavuma and David Bedingham were both dismissed before lunch, while Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen fell cheaply in the second session. Pakistan’s Naseem Shah, who finished with figures of 3-92, had spearheaded the attack to reduce South Africa to 213-8, with only a slim lead.
South Africa Edges Closer to the World Test Championship Final
Bosch’s heroics turned the tide, giving South Africa a commanding lead heading into Pakistan’s second innings. With the series comprising only two matches, South Africa needs just one victory to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June.
The second Test is scheduled to begin on January 3 in Cape Town, where South Africa will aim to maintain their momentum.
