Copyright Cricket Addictor
Pakistan batsman Abdullah Shafique displayed determination and calm during Day 1 (Monday, October 20) of the second Test against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Following the opening day, Shafique copied Indian batter Rohit Sharma’s witty remark during the post-day press conference. Pakistan took advantage of South Africa’s sloppy fielding to post 259/5 on Day 1 of the second Test. The visitors dropped five catches on a turning pitch, preventing them from gaining the upper hand after Pakistan opted to bat. Abdullah Shafique scored 57 runs off 146 deliveries, including four boundaries. Abdullah Shafique Rides His Luck Before Falling for 57 in Rawalpindi Test Abdullah Shafique had his luck early in the innings, surviving three dropped catches and a close lbw call before finally falling for 57. His dismissal came when a leg-side edge off the bat was confirmed through a South African review using UltraEdge technology. South Africa’s bowlers created frequent opportunities but were let down by poor fielding. Shafique and Masood helped Pakistan build a crucial 111-run partnership for the second wicket after the skipper won the toss and opted to bat. Earlier, Shafique was put down by Tristan Stubbs off Kagiso Rabada before opening his account, survived a near bail-off incident from Marco Jansen, and escaped another dismissal when a successful review overturned an lbw decision from Keshav Maharaj. Mai Unka Coach Hota Toh Aapko Bata Sakta - Abdullah Shafique Abdullah Shafique responded with humor when asked about South Africa’s five dropped catches that benefited Pakistan. Shafique quipped that he could have told about that if he were the South Africa head coach. "Sir, ye mai unka coach hota toh aapko bata sakta. Iska jawab acche se de sakta," Shafique said. Shafique’s half-century was instrumental in giving Pakistan a solid foundation on Day 1, with South Africa’s poor fielding proving costly and allowing him to capitalize on multiple reprieves. After India’s victory in the 2019 World Cup, Rohit Sharma gave a witty response to a Pakistani journalist. When asked what advice he would offer Pakistan’s struggling batters, Rohit replied that he could only share tips if he ever became their coach, leaving the room in laughter. "Agar main Pakistan ka coach bana to main bataunga, abhi kya bataunga! (If I become the coach of Pakistan then surely I will tell you. What can I say now!)," Rohit said. Babar Azam’s Struggles Continue as Maharaj Claims His Wicket for 16 Pakistan’s batters capitalized on South Africa’s sloppy fielding. Shan Masood scored 87 after being dropped on 71, while Abdullah Shafique, who benefited from four missed chances, made 57. The pair added 111 runs for the second wicket before falling to Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer. Babar Azam’s lean run continued as he managed just 16 before Maharaj dismissed him, extending his century drought to 29 innings. Kagiso Rabada struck late, removing Mohammad Rizwan for 19 with the second new ball. Saud Shakeel (42*) and Salman Agha (10*) remained unbeaten at stumps, steering Pakistan toward a potential 2-0 series win against the reigning World Test champions. Maharaj, returning from injury, took 2 for 63, while Harmer claimed 2 for 75.
