Aiden Markram was just 19 runs away from a test century at lunch on Friday, as South Africa reached 180-5 on the second day of the first test against Pakistan. Markram’s steady performance has been a lifeline for South Africa in their chase of Pakistan’s first-innings total of 211. After a string of low scores, Markram’s chanceless knock showed his value to the team, leaving South Africa just 31 runs behind with five wickets remaining.
South Africa’s Efforts to Build a Lead
At lunch, Aiden Markram was 81 not out, with Kyle Verreynne (0 not out) by his side. The pair will resume after the break with the goal of building a lead for the hosts. With their eyes on securing a spot in next June’s World Test Championship final, South Africa needs a win in this match. Markram’s performance, combined with the team’s efforts, is vital to staying on course for the win.
Pakistan’s Morning Session Breakthroughs
Despite Markram’s composed knock, Pakistan fought back in the morning session with two important wickets. Captain Temba Bavuma was dismissed for 31, caught behind off Aamer Jamal. David Bedingham followed shortly after, scoring a quickfire 30 runs from 33 balls before an extra bounce from Naseem Shah saw him edge to Kamran Ghulam in the slips. These breakthroughs kept Pakistan in the contest, but South Africa’s Markram remains focused on guiding the team forward.
Markram’s Role in South Africa’s World Test Championship Push
South Africa needs to win at least one match in this two-match series to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June. The pressure is on, but Aiden Markram’s resilience at the crease is a promising sign. With South Africa having won their last seven home tests against Pakistan, Markram’s performance, along with the team’s, could prove key to extending that streak and ensuring a spot in the final.
