Lahore — Pakistan were bowled out for 378 runs in their first innings on the second day of the opening Test against South Africa at the Gaddafi Stadium on Monday, setting up an intriguing contest as the visitors prepared to begin their reply.

Resuming the innings at 313 for 5, Pakistan hoped to build a strong total after a solid start on day one. Mohammad Rizwan (62 not out overnight) and Agha Salman (52 not out) began the day cautiously, adding valuable runs in the early overs. However, both batsmen fell in quick succession as South Africa’s spinners found rhythm on a pitch offering variable bounce and turn.

Rizwan, who played with characteristic patience and precision, reached 75 runs before edging a turning delivery from Senuran Muthusamy to the wicketkeeper. In the same over, Nauman Ali and Sajid Khan were dismissed without scoring, both undone by Muthusamy’s sharp spin and control.

Pakistan’s lower order offered little resistance after those blows. The tail collapsed swiftly, losing the last five wickets for just 65 runs, as South Africa tightened their grip. The innings ended at 378, giving Pakistan a respectable yet slightly underwhelming total given their strong overnight position.

Muthusamy emerged as the standout bowler for South Africa, finishing with figures of 4 for 68, while Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen claimed two wickets apiece. The Proteas’ disciplined attack ensured that Pakistan could not post a 400-plus score, despite a promising foundation.

Earlier in the innings, Pakistan’s top order had performed admirably. Abdullah Shafique anchored the innings with a composed 117, while Babar Azam contributed 84 before falling to a loose drive late on the first day. Their 185-run partnership for the third wicket was the highlight of Pakistan’s innings and gave them early control of the match.

Agha Salman played a useful hand with 59 runs, adding stability in the middle order, while Rizwan’s knock provided momentum before the lower-order collapse.

As play resumes, South Africa will be looking to capitalize on the morning’s success by building a strong response. Early movement and spin are expected to challenge both teams in the coming sessions, with the pitch beginning to show signs of deterioration.

Cricket analysts believe Pakistan’s total, though competitive, may fall short if South Africa’s top order handles the new ball well. “Pakistan’s collapse after a strong start will disappoint them,” said former Test captain Ramiz Raja in commentary. “They had the chance to push beyond 400, but South Africa’s bowlers showed excellent control and exploited the conditions perfectly.”