NEW DELHI: Shan Masood and Babar Azam on Sunday etched their names in historical past with a stellar efficiency, recording Pakistan’s highest-ever opening partnership in opposition to South Africa.
The duo surpassed the earlier report of 137, set by Imran Farhat and Taufeeq Umar in Faisalabad again in 2003, by developing an impressive 205-run stand within the second innings of the continuing Check.
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Going through a frightening deficit after following on, Masood and Babar performed with precision and aptitude, giving Pakistan a glimmer of hope.
On the time of Babar’s dismissal, Masood led from the entrance with a commanding knock of 102 not out, hitting 14 4s in an innings stuffed with authority and composure.
Earlier than falling prey to Marco Jansen’s supply, Babar, identified for his class and beauty, complemented his associate brilliantly, crafting a fluent 81, that includes ten 4s.
This stand, vital not only for breaking a 22-year-old report but in addition for its context within the match, has sparked conversations about Pakistan’s preventing spirit.
Highest Opening Partnerships vs South Africa
- Babar Azam & Shan Masood (2025): 205 runs
- Imran Farhat & Taufeeq Umar (2003): 137 runs
- Khurram Manzoor & Shan Masood (2013): 135 runs
- Mohammad Hafeez & Taufeeq Umar (2010): 105 runs
- Aamer Sohail & Saeed Anwar (1995-1998): 101 runs
Having struggled with a first-innings collapse for simply 194, the pair’s resilience has been a key spotlight of the sport.
South Africa, spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, appeared to lose steam in opposition to the flawless method of the Pakistani openers. Regardless of Rabada’s fierce tempo and the guile of spinners like Keshav Maharaj, the pair’s dedication remained unshaken.
With in the present day’s 205-run stand, Babar and Masood’s present complete as a gap pair stands at a exceptional 207, underlining their potential as a formidable duo on the high of the order.
The brand new report provides one other feather to their caps, symbolising the daybreak of a promising partnership.
