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Record Broken After 18 Years! Babar Azam, Shan Masood Script History For Pakistan In SA

Soumyajit Dutta

Babar Azam and Shan Masood script history for Pakistan [Source: AP Photos]Babar Azam and Shan Masood script history for Pakistan [Source: AP Photos]

Babar Azam and Shan Masood made some serious waves in Pakistan's Test cricket history with their stunning 205-run opening partnership against South Africa in Cape Town. The duo significantly smashed the previous record of 133 runs held by Yasir Hameed and Younis Khan from the 2006-07 season.

After a shaky first innings where Pakistan collapsed to just 194 against South Africa’s towering 615, things were looking pretty dismal for the team. With Saim Ayub injured, Babar stepped up to open the batting and, together with Shan Masood, showed incredible grit and determination against a tough South African bowling lineup led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen.

Babar, Masood's Determination Forges Historic Stand

Babar looked effortless as he racked up 81 runs, while Masood held his ground with a solid unbeaten 102. Their partnership didn’t just break a long-standing record, it also injected some much-needed hope into Pakistan's bid to at least secure a draw in the two-match series.

Pakistan had a rough start in their first innings, getting bowled out for just 194, with Babar Azam being the standout performer, scoring 58 runs. Meanwhile, South Africa put up a massive total, thanks to some solid centuries from their top-order batters. 

Pakistan Looks Strong After Follow-On

In their follow-on innings, it looked like Pakistan was heading for an innings defeat. But Babar and Shan Masood came to the rescue with a strong partnership as openers. They balanced caution with some aggressive shots, with Babar and Masood displaying some elegant strokes and punches against the Proteas bowling attack.

As Day 3 wrapped up, Pakistan trails by 208 runs after Babar got out to Marco Jansen in the 47th over. With Masood and Khurram Shahzad at the crease, the team is still holding onto hope that they can close the gap and set South Africa a decent target for the chase.