Mohammad Abbas achieved a major milestone on day two of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, reaching 100 Test wickets in his career
Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas achieved a major milestone on day two of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands, reaching 100 Test wickets in his career.
Making his return to international cricket after over three years, Abbas dismissed Kwena Maphaka for a duck to complete the remarkable feat. He has now taken 100 wickets in 27 Tests at an impressive average of 22.99 and an economy rate of 2.49.
Among Pakistan’s all-time Test bowlers, Abbas holds the 19th spot, with Wasim Akram leading the pack with 414 wickets, followed by Waqar Younis (373) and Imran Khan (362). Among active bowlers, Shaheen Afridi has claimed 116 wickets in 31 matches.
South Africa, powered by a stunning 259-run knock from Ryan Rickelton, posted a massive total of 615 in their first innings. Kyle Verreynne also contributed a vital century, with the pair adding 148 runs for the fifth wicket.
Pakistan started day two strongly, with Abbas removing David Bedingham early for just five runs. However, Rickelton and Verreynne took control, with further support from Marco Jansen, who added an 86-run partnership with Rickelton.
Rickelton’s marathon innings of 259 off 343 balls included 29 boundaries and three sixes, but he fell short of becoming the second South African to score a Test triple century. Keshav Maharaj then added a quick 40 off 35 balls before being dismissed by Khurram Shahzad.
Abbas and Salman Ali Agha stood out for Pakistan, each claiming three wickets. Khurram Shahzad and Mir Hamza also contributed with two wickets apiece as South Africa’s innings concluded in 141.3 overs.
Pakistan will now look to respond strongly as they face a daunting target set by the hosts.