Pakistan Capitalize On Momentum, Choose To Bat First vs SA

Pakistan has grabbed all the attention in the 2nd Test against South Africa with one brave call, they’ve dropped a pacer and handed a debut cap to 38-year-old Asif Afridi. Confidence is clearly sky-high after that 93-run win in the first match. Shan Masood won the toss and chose to bat, no second thoughts. Pakistan is looking all fired up, and now it’s all about setting the tone from ball one.

That bold toss call speaks volumes about their mindset. They clearly believe the conditions are ready for them. So batting first makes sense, put runs on the board, let the opposition face the tougher 2nd innings. Pakistan is going aggressive so far with their tactics.

The decision fits neatly into their wider game plan. One of the key items on their agenda: owning the opening session, putting pressure on South Africa early, and making the most of the favourable start. The earlier win had ended South Africa’s 10-match Test streak. Pakistan’s confidence is creeping back, and the figures show it.

Still, the visitors won’t roll over. South Africa has already flagged their spinner-heavy plans. Their experienced campaigner is back, but the toss turns in Pakistan’s favor. You could tell they wanted control early. The plan’s clear, they want to pile up runs, then let the spinners do the rest when the surface starts breaking down. Smart move. The pitch will only get trickier later, and Pakistan wants to be the ones taking advantage, not defending against it.

Still, there’s work ahead. The middle order has been under the microscope for weeks. Too many soft dismissals, too many starts thrown away. This time, they need to stay patient, build partnerships, and not hand momentum back. 

The World Test Championship table has already shifted. Pakistan’s win pushed them ahead of India. Now comes the real test, can they hold that spot? 

The next few days will tell if this plan holds water. Will the surface crumble their way, or turn against them? One thing’s clear, Pakistan has carved out an opening. Whether they can drive it home, we’ll find out soon enough.