In the 16th match of IPL 2025 – between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Mumbai Indians (MI) – at the Ekana Stadium, a standout moment came during the 10th over when substitute fielder Corbin Bosch pulled off a sensational catch to dismiss LSG skipper Rishabh Pant.

Hardik Pandya’s slower ball does the trick

The moment unfolded on the fourth ball of the over bowled by MI captain Hardik Pandya. Bowling a slower one on a good length, Pandya induced a leading edge from Pant, who was attempting to work the ball on the leg side. The ball lobbed up towards mid-off, where Corbin Bosch �?on as a substitute �?charged in with determination. With great anticipation and athleticism, Bosch slid forward and completed a brilliant one-handed catch just inches off the turf. Pant’s short and unconvincing stay at the crease ended with just 2 runs off 6 balls.

Here’s the video:

Hardik Pandya wins the battle of captains 💙

Rishabh Pant departs courtesy of an excellent catch by Corbin Bosch! 🔥

Updates ▶️ http://t.co/HHS1Gsaw71#TATAIPL | #LSGvMI | @mipaltan | @hardikpandya7 pic.twitter.com/bntlAsAx0P

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 4, 2025

The wicket proved to be a crucial breakthrough for Mumbai as Pant’s dismissal put some halt to LSG’s momentum during a high-scoring innings. Pandya, who eventually finished with figures of 5/36, celebrated the dismissal with a loud roar, clearly aware of the significance of removing the LSG captain at a pivotal stage.

Also READ: LSG vs MI – Here’s why Rohit Sharma is not playing today’s IPL 2025 match

Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram power LSG to 203/8

LSG posted a formidable total of 203/8 after put in to bat, riding on a fiery 60 off 31 from Mitchell Marsh and a steady 53 from Aiden Markram. Cameos from Ayush Badoni (30 off 19) and David Miller (27 off 14) helped LSG push beyond the 200-run mark despite losing wickets in the death overs.

As the chase gets underway, Mumbai Indians will need a solid start from their top order to tackle the daunting target of 204 on a pitch that still looks good for batting.

Also READ: 3 players who can replace Kagiso Rabada for Gujarat Titans in IPL 2025

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 yet to begin, several franchises have already been forced to make changes to their squads due to injuries. While most of these replacements have gone smoothly, one particular case has sparked legal trouble. Teams like Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have announced replacements, but Mumbai’s signing of Corbin Bosch as a replacement for Lizaad Williams has landed in a potential contractual dispute with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Confirmed replacements before IPL 2025 begins

Several teams have had to tweak their squads due to player injuries. KKR signed Chetan Sakariya in place of Umran Malik, while Mumbai roped in Mujeeb Ur Rahman as a replacement for Allah Ghazanfar. SRH also made a change, bringing in Wiaan Mulder to replace Brydon Carse.

Additionally, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are monitoring their injury situation, with Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan and Avesh Khan facing fitness concerns. If needed, they may draft in Shardul Thakur or Shivam Mavi as replacements to strengthen their pace attack. However, the most controversial replacement so far has been Bosch, who joined Mumbai as a replacement for Williams.

BCCI’s updated player replacement rules for IPL 2025

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made key changes to its player replacement regulations, ensuring that franchises have more flexibility to deal with injuries. Previously, teams could replace a player only until the seventh match of the season. However, for IPL 2025, BCCI has extended this deadline to the 12th league match, giving teams more time to finalize their squads.

Eligibility criteria for replacement players

• A player can be signed as a replacement only if he is part of the Registered Available Player Pool (RAPP) for that season.
• His contracted salary must not be lower than his base price as listed in the RAPP.
• If a franchise initially signed a player as a net bowler, they cannot stop him from joining another franchise if he is signed as a replacement.
• The replacement player’s salary cannot exceed the amount of the player he is replacing.
• If a player is signed mid-season, his contracted salary will be adjusted based on the number of matches remaining.

Impact of replacements on IPL salary cap

A major concern for franchises when signing replacements is how it affects their salary cap for the season. BCCI has set clear guidelines regarding this issue:

• The replacement player’s salary does not count toward the team’s overall salary cap for that season.
• If a team decides to retain the replacement player for the following season, then his full salary will be included in the cap.
• Franchises must ensure their total squad size does not exceed 25 players, even after making replacements.
• If a team signs a replacement player during IPL 2025, 2026, or 2027, they have the option to extend his contract, but from the next season onwards, he will be treated like a regular squad member in terms of salary cap rules.

Mid-season replacements: Rules and restrictions

A mid-season replacement is only allowed under specific conditions. These include:

• The injury or illness must occur before or during the team’s 12th league match.
• A BCCI-appointed doctor must confirm that the injury is season-ending.
• The injured player must have been available for the remainder of the season if not for the injury.
• The injury must prevent the player from participating in all remaining matches of the season.

Once a player is replaced mid-season, he cannot return to the squad for the remainder of IPL 2025.

Also READ: IPL 2025: The Teams most likely to dominate this Season

The Corbin Bosch controversy: IPL vs PSL contract dispute

Among all the replacements, the biggest controversy has erupted around Bosch, who was signed by Mumbai to replace Williams. However, Bosch’s participation in IPL 2025 has led to a potential legal battle with the PCB.

Bosch was originally signed by Peshawar in PSL 2025 under the Diamond category, which reportedly valued his contract between INR 50-75 lakh (USD 60,000-80,000). However, Bosch chose to opt out of PSL at the last moment to sign for MI in IPL 2025.

The PCB has now accused Bosch of breaching his contract and is considering legal action against the South African all-rounder. The case has raised serious questions about the legality of cross-league transfers, and whether players can break PSL contracts to participate in IPL. As a result, Bosch’s move to IPL could set a new legal precedent, possibly affecting future signings between IPL and PSL.

Replacement players and their salaries in IPL 2025

Several key replacement signings have already been confirmed:

• Mujeeb joined Mumbai  for INR 2 crore, replacing Allah, who was originally signed for INR 4.8 crore.
• Mulder (SRH) and Sakariya (KKR) were signed for INR 75 lakh each, their base price at the auction.
• Bosch’s salary details remain undisclosed, but he was originally listed at INR 30 lakh in the IPL auction, where he went unsold. However, he later joined MI as a replacement for Williams, who was signed for INR 75 lakh.

With IPL 2025 yet to begin, more replacements could still be announced, especially for teams like LSG, who are still assessing their injury concerns. Meanwhile, the legal battle between Bosch and PCB could set new rules and regulations for how cross-league contracts are handled in the future. The IPL season is just days away, and all eyes will now be on how these replacements perform for their respective teams.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Top 10 wicketkeepers to watch out for

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

In a significant development ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, South African cricketer Corbin Bosch has been served a legal notice by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for allegedly breaching his contract with the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Bosch, who was recently signed by the Mumbai Indians (MI) as a replacement for the injured Lizaad Williams, had initially committed to play for Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL.

Reason for the legal notice to Corbin Bosch by PCB

Corbin Bosch, a 30-year-old pace-bowling all-rounder, made his international debut for South Africa against Pakistan last year. He was picked by Peshawar Zalmi in the Diamond category during the PSL draft held in January 2025. However, his sudden shift to the IPL has sparked controversy, particularly as it marks the first time the PSL and IPL will run concurrently.

The PCB issued the legal notice through Bosch’s representative, demanding an explanation for his decision to withdraw from his contractual commitments with the PSL. The board has outlined potential repercussions for his exit and expects a response within a stipulated timeframe. This move comes as the PCB seeks to enforce contract obligations and maintain player loyalty, especially in a season where several international players opted for the PSL after going unsold in the IPL auction.

Also READ: IPL 2025 – Aakash Chopra predicts leading run-scorer and highest wicket-taker for Lucknow Super Giants

Impact on Mumbai Indians

Bosch’s inclusion in the MI squad was seen as a strategic move to bolster their lineup ahead of the 2025 IPL season. However, the legal notice from the PCB could potentially complicate his participation. If Bosch is found to have breached his contract, it might lead to disciplinary actions, which could impact his availability in the IPL.

Concurrent scheduling of PSL and IPL

The concurrent scheduling of the PSL and IPL has created challenges for players and franchises alike. The PSL, traditionally held in February and March, has been rescheduled to April 11 to May 18 due to the recently-concluded ICC Champions Trophy and other international fixtures in Pakistan. Meanwhile, the IPL will run from March 22 to May 25. This overlap has raised concerns about player commitments and the potential for similar contract disputes in the future.

Also READ: IPL 2025 – Aakash Chopra predicts leading run-scorer and highest wicket-taker for Lucknow Super Giants

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is not just a cricket tournament; it’s a stage where players from across the globe showcase their talent, learn from the best, and evolve as cricketers. Among the newest entrants to this grand stage is South African all-rounder, who has been signed by Mumbai Indians (MI) for IPL 2025 as a replacement for the injured Lizaad Williams. Bosch’s excitement about joining MI reflects his hunger to grow as a cricketer and his eagerness to work alongside legends of the game.

A new chapter in South African’s career

Corbin Bosch’s journey to IPL 2025 is marked by notable achievements in domestic and international cricket. The 30-year-old medium pacer has made waves with his performances in the SA20 league, where he picked up 11 wickets in eight matches during the 2024-25 season. Additionally, his unbeaten knock of 81 against Pakistan in the Boxing Day Test further established his reputation as a dependable all-rounder.

Bosch has played 86 T20s, taking 59 wickets at an economy rate of 8.38, and scored 663 runs with two half-centuries to his name. His versatility as both a bowler and batter makes him a valuable asset for MI, a franchise known for nurturing talent and building championship-winning squads.

Learning from legends

One of the aspects that excites Bosch the most about joining MI is the opportunity to share the dressing room with world-class players like Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult. He believes their expertise will help him refine his craft as a fast bowler.

“I see it as an exciting opportunity for me to grow as a cricketer on and off the field, learning the mindset of the greats. We have some fantastic fast bowlers in our squad like Bumrah and Trent Boult I don’t think you can learn the art of fast bowling from guys much better than them. I’m excited about that and working with Mahela and we all know how great he was in his time. I’m buzzing for the experience and I think it can only do good for my cricket,�?/em> Bosch stated to Independent Media.

�?em>A big goal of mine is to play as many games as possible. I just want to play good cricket. The big thing is that these leagues, I see it as a huge opportunity to learn and grow my game so that when the next big opportunity comes, be it international cricket or another league, my game will stretch up to another level,�?he added, emphasizing how exposure in leagues like the IPL can elevate a player’s game.

The South African all-rounder also highlighted how IPL experience has transformed players like Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen into world-class cricketers. He hopes that facing top-tier batters in IPL will sharpen his bowling skills and make him a more rounded cricketer.

�?em>Hopefully, I come back a much better cricketer and more rounded cricketer so that one day we can win a trophy for South Africa,�?Bosch said.

Also READ: Shane Bond warns Jasprit Bumrah of potential career-ending injury ahead of IPL 2025

A team with big ambitions

Indians, five-time IPL champions, have rebuilt their squad with an eye on reclaiming glory in IPL 2025. Retaining stalwarts like Rohit, Bumrah, Hardik Pandya, and Suryakumar Yadav ensures leadership and experience within the team. New additions like Trent Boult and Deepak Chahar further strengthen their bowling attack.

MI will kick off their campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 23 in what promises to be an electrifying El-Clasico clash. With Bosch joining this star-studded lineup, expectations are high for MI to bounce back from their poor showing last season and compete fiercely for their sixth IPL title.

Also READ: Rishabh Pant opens up on players focussing less on representing India due to IPL

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

Mumbai Indians (MI) have suffered a setback ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, with South African pacer Lizaad Williams being ruled out due to an injury. Williams, a right-arm fast bowler known for his ability to generate pace and movement, was expected to play a key role in MI’s bowling lineup.

The 30-year-old has been a consistent performer in South Africa’s domestic circuit and has also represented the national side in international cricket. His absence will be a blow to MI, who were banking on his skills to strengthen their pace attack alongside star bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. However, the franchise has quickly moved to find a replacement to fill the void left by Williams.

Mumbai Indians announces the replacement of Lizaad Williams

To cover for Williams, MI have roped in South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch as his replacement. Bosch, a versatile bowling all-rounder, brings both batting depth and pace-bowling prowess to the squad. While he is yet to make his IPL debut, he has prior experience with the league, having been part of Rajasthan Royals as a net bowler before being signed as a replacement for Nathan Coulter-Nile in 2022.

Bosch’s selection is a strategic move by MI, as he offers a dual skillset that can provide balance to the team. His ability to bowl with control and contribute valuable runs in the lower order makes him a valuable asset in T20 cricket.

🚨 𝐌𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐢 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐫𝐛𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐨𝐬𝐜𝐡 🇿🇦

South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch has been signed by Mumbai Indians as a replacement for Lizaad Williams, who has been ruled out of TATA IPL 2025 due to an injury.

Corbin was a part of the victorious�?pic.twitter.com/4cE5Rjr5x6

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 8, 2025

Also READ: Mumbai Indians announce membership ticket booking for their home matches at Wankhede Stadium

A talented all-rounder with impressive numbers

Bosch has been making waves in the South African cricketing circuit with his all-round abilities. The 30-year-old recently played a pivotal role in MI Cape Town’s title-winning campaign in SA20 2025, where he claimed 11 wickets in eight matches, showcasing his effectiveness with the ball in high-pressure situations.

Apart from his bowling skills, Bosch has also proven himself as a handy batter. With over 2,500 runs and 150+ wickets across formats, he has consistently delivered in domestic and franchise cricket. His performances have earned him a spot in South Africa’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where he was included as a replacement for the injured Anrich Nortje.

Also READ: IPL 2025: Mumbai Indians (MI) announces replacement for Afghanistan’s spinner Allah Ghazanfar

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

South Africa‘s team management has announced that pacer Corbin Bosch will replace Anrich Nortje as a replacement in the squad for the Champions Trophy 2025. The 31-year-old was selected in the Proteas squad with the hope that his pace and lateral seam movement would benefit the team against quality rivals. However, a back injury has ruled him out of the coveted ICC tournament. Corbin has recently featured for the MI Cape Town in the SA20 2025. Given his inclusion in the South African squad for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy, here are some key facts about the pace sensation. 

Key facts about Corbin Bosch 

1. Early life and domestic career:

Corbin was born on September 10, 1994. His father, Tertius Bosch, was a South African cricketer himself and gave young Corbin, the motivation and inspiration to pursue cricket as a career. Bosch first gained recognition as part of South Africa’s victorious squad in the 2014 ICC under-19 Cricket World Cup. He made his T20 debut for the Titans in the 2014�?5 Ram Slam T20 Challenge and later debuted in first-class and List-A cricket in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Over the years, he has played for various teams, including the Titans, Northerns, Tshwane Spartans, and Paarl Royals in the SA20 league. 

2. Test debut for the Proteas:

Corbin’s international career took off in December 2024 when he received his maiden call-up to South Africa’s Test squad for a crucial series against Pakistan. His Test debut on 26 December 2024 at Centurion was remarkable in the sense that he became the 25th cricketer to take a wicket with his first ball in Test cricket, eventually finishing with 4/63 in Pakistan’s first innings. Bosch further cemented his impact with a gritty unbeaten 81 off 93 balls, setting a new record for the highest score by a number nine batsman on Test debut and becoming the first South African to achieve both a four-wicket haul and a half-century in his maiden Test. His stellar debut performances under pressure underscored his potential as a future mainstay in South African cricket.

3. ODI appearance for the South African team:

Corbin earned the maiden call-up for the Proteas in the series against Pakistan. In his ODI debut, he showcased his all-round abilities, dismissing Saim Ayub for his first international wicket and contributing a valuable 40 runs off 44 balls. 

4. Impressive display for the MICT in the SA20 2025: 

Corbin played a crucial role for MI Cape Town in the SA20 2025 as he clinched 11 wickets in 8 matches during the season. Corbin has made some impressive contributions to the franchise with his ability to provide early breakthroughs in the game. His relentless pace attack was crucial for the team as they triumphed over Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the final to win the league this season.

Also Read: All you need to know about Matthew Breetzke: LSG recruit who smashed century on his ODI debut in Pakistan

5. Corbin’s family life:

Corbin remains largely focused on his career. He has kept his personal life largely private, opting not to share much about his relationships or family outside of cricket. 

6. Philanthropy work and legacy:

Corbin is actively involved in charitable initiatives, particularly those focused on youth development and sports education. He frequently collaborates with non-profits to organize cricket camps for aspiring players. Corbin’s legacy as a cricketer is closely tied to his ability to inspire young players. His journey—from a promising U-19 player to an established professional—serves as a testament to his perseverance and passion for the sport.

Also Read: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma reveals why Champions Trophy is more challenging than World Cup

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) have announced the replacement of their injured pace bowler Anrich Nortje for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025. Notably, Nortje, known for his express pace and ability to rattle opposition batters, has been a key figure in the Proteas�?bowling attack across formats. His absence will significantly impact South Africa’s plans, especially in Pakistan, where his raw speed could have been a game-changer.

South Africa announces the replacement of Anrich Nortje

To fill the void left by Nortje, South Africa have named pace-bowling all-rounder Corbin Bosch in their 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy. Bosch, who made his One-Day International (ODI) debut against Pakistan last December, picked up one wicket for 69 runs in nine overs. While he has limited experience at the highest level, his impressive performances in domestic cricket, particularly in SA20, earned him the nod for this prestigious tournament.

Also SEE: PHOTOS – Meet the wives and girlfriends of South African cricketers

Proteas struggle with multiple injury concerns

Apart from Nortje, South Africa are also missing young pacer Gerald Coetzee, who has been sidelined due to a groin injury. The team is further impacted by injuries to Beuran Hendricks and Lizaad Williams, both of whom are still recovering. To strengthen their fast-bowling reserves, South Africa have included teenage sensation Kwena Maphaka as a traveling reserve for the event.

South Africa squad for Champions Trophy 2025 (updated)

Temba Bavuma, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs, Rassie van der Dussen

Also READ: South African legend advocates for Women’s SA20 League

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

South Africa‘s Champions Trophy 2025 preparations have taken a significant hit as Gerald Coetzee, the frontrunner to replace Anrich Nortje, faces fitness concerns. According to ESPNcricinfo reports, Coetzee, sidelined from Joburg Super Kings�?SA20 2025 clash against Pretoria Capitals, is grappling with a hamstring issue.

Gerald Coetzee’s fitness woes deepen South Africa’s bowling crisis

This setback comes shortly after Coetzee return to competitive cricket in the SA20, where he claimed 2/32 against Durban’s Super Giants in his first outing since injuring his groin in the Test series against Sri Lanka. His fitness trajectory has been fraught with interruptions, including a hip niggle and a 12-week conditioning block. Despite showing glimpses of brilliance in South Africa’s T20I series against India, Coetzee’s recent struggles leave his participation in the Champions Trophy uncertain. With Nortje already ruled out due to a back injury, South Africa’s team management faces the daunting task of shoring up their bowling resources ahead of the marquee event.

It has been reported that Gerald Coetzee has 𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 injury and could be out of action for the next few weeks with a possible hamstring issue#SA20 pic.twitter.com/G16ZDfeH71

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) January 17, 2025

Champions Trophy 2025: South Africa’s challenges mount

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025, set to take place in Pakistan, promises to be a highly competitive tournament, featuring the top eight ODI teams. South Africa are grappling with injuries to key bowlers like Anrich Nortje and Gerald Coetzee. The tournament, which follows a two-group format with semi-finals and a final, will test South Africa’s depth and adaptability.

With conditions in Pakistan favoring pacers and spinners alike, South Africa’s lack of fully fit frontline bowlers could impact their campaign. The team’s management is likely to explore backup options from their domestic circuit to ensure a balanced squad. Coetzee’s potential absence, coupled with Nortje’s injury, highlights the fragile nature of South Africa’s pace attack heading into one of cricket’s most prestigious tournaments.

Also READ: Who is Lhuan-dre Pretorius? The rising star of South African cricket

3  pacers who can replace Anrich Nortje in the Champions Trophy 2025

1. Kwena Maphaka: The young left-arm pacer

At just 18 years old, Kwena Maphaka has burst onto the scene as an exciting left-arm fast bowler for South Africa. With only two ODIs under his belt, Maphaka’s raw pace and ability to generate awkward bounce make him a compelling option for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. His potential to exploit the seam-friendly conditions and bring variation with his angle of attack could give South Africa an edge. However, his lack of experience on the international stage remains a challenge, particularly in high-pressure matches. If picked, Maphaka will be tasked with stepping up quickly to shoulder South Africa’s bowling responsibilities in a marquee tournament.

2. Corbin Bosch: The all-round bowling option

Corbin Bosch, South Africa’s most recent ODI debutant, offers a versatile option as a bowling all-rounder. Having played only one ODI, he is relatively untested, but his ability to bowl with pace and control makes him a valuable addition to the squad. Bosch also brings batting depth, which could be crucial in tight games during the Champions Trophy. In Pakistan’s conditions, his adaptability in both pace and movement will be vital. Although not an outright strike bowler, Bosch’s knack for delivering breakthroughs and contributing with the bat could provide balance to the South African lineup.

3. Ottneil Baartman: The death-bowling specialist

Ottneil Baartman is a seasoned domestic performer who has played four ODIs, taking four wickets at an impressive average of 16.77 and an economy rate of 4. His ability to bowl pinpoint yorkers at the death makes him a strong contender for the Champions Trophy in Pakistan. Baartman’s experience in handling high-pressure situations, combined with his ability to restrict runs in the final overs, could prove invaluable. While he lacks the raw pace of Nortje, his control and consistency could complement South Africa’s bowling attack in challenging conditions. If injuries persist in the squad, Baartman might be a reliable option to step in and deliver under pressure.

Also READ: New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra predicts the finalists of Champions Trophy 2025

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.

Day 3 of the Boxing Day Test between South Africa and Pakistan unfolded as a gripping contest, with both teams refusing to give an inch. Set a modest target of 148, South Africa found themselves in trouble at 27/3 by stumps, courtesy of a fierce spell from Pakistan’s pacers. Earlier in the day, Pakistan’s lower order succumbed to the relentless brilliance of Marco Jansen, whose career-best 6/62 dismantled their second innings and left them with only a slender lead to defend. However, the visitors displayed remarkable resilience in the field, striking thrice in the final session to keep their hopes alive.

Pakistan’s batting collapse: Saud Shakeel’s fighting knock

The third day, after the first session got washed out due to rain, began with Pakistan resuming at 88/3, hoping to extend their lead significantly on a pitch that was gradually deteriorating. Saud Shakeel, continuing his fine form, looked determined to anchor the innings. However, Mohammad Rizwan‘s early dismissal to Jansen set the tone for a dismal morning for the visitors. Rizwan, attempting to counter Jansen’s aggressive short-ball strategy, edged to the slips for a mere 13 runs.

This wicket opened the floodgates as Pakistan’s lower-middle order capitulated under relentless pressure. Jansen’s clever use of the uneven bounce and his ability to extract pace from the surface proved too much for the tailenders. Shakeel battled valiantly for his 84, showcasing immense skill and composure, but he found little support at the other end. Pakistan folded for 237, with Jansen’s career-best 6/62 dismantling any hopes of a substantial lead. The innings exposed the fragility of Pakistan’s batting lineup, especially under testing conditions.

Early strikes from Mohammad Abbas and Khurram Shahzad rock South Africa

South Africa’s chase of 148 runs began under overcast conditions, which further aided Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. Mohammad Abbas struck in his very first over, trapping Tony de Zorzi with a delivery that jagged back sharply off the seam. Abbas, known for his pinpoint accuracy, exploited the conditions to perfection, giving Pakistan an ideal start.

Khurram Shahzad then produced a moment of brilliance, dismissing Tristan Stubbs with a delivery that swung late and found the outside edge, leaving the batter stunned. Shahzad continued his fiery spell, targeting the body with short-pitched deliveries and eventually claiming Ryan Rickelton with a well-directed bouncer that took the top edge. By stumps, South Africa were in deep trouble at 27/3, with Pakistan’s pacers showcasing tremendous skill and determination to keep their team in the contest.

Also WATCH: Khurram Shahzad gets rid of Tony de Zorzi with a beauty on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test �?SA vs PAK

Aiden Markram stands firm amidst the chaos

Amid the carnage at the other end, Aiden Markram stood tall, demonstrating remarkable resilience and composure. His unbeaten 22 was a masterclass in adaptability, as he skillfully negotiated the testing conditions. Markram’s judgment outside the off-stump and his ability to counter the short ball were critical in ensuring South Africa did not collapse entirely under pressure.

While his innings lacked flamboyance, it was rich in substance, as he absorbed the relentless pressure from Abbas and Shahzad. Recognizing the importance of preserving his wicket, Markram refrained from any rash strokes, focusing instead on building a foundation for the chase. As the day ended with South Africa requiring 121 runs and Pakistan needing seven wickets, Markram’s role in steering the innings forward remained pivotal. His ability to anchor the chase amidst the crumbling top order will likely define the outcome of this enthralling contest.

Here’s how Twitter reacted:

121 runs is needed tomorrow with 7 wickets in hand to book their spot in that WTC final. Surely they don’t mess it up�?surely! #SAvPAK

— naeemah (@NaeemahBenjamin) December 28, 2024

Mohammad Abbas at an average pace of 125km/h looks more lethal than 145ers.

What a talent. This seems to be his innings to own.

SA 19/3. #SAvPAK #PAKvsSA #MohammadAbbas pic.twitter.com/p6b0mnrqX9

— Ameer Hamza Asif (@AmeerHamzaAsif) December 28, 2024

Where are those who said Saud can’t perform on such pitches? Kept hearing from ‘experts�?that he can only perform in Asia. Hope you got your answer today🤫

— Haroon (@hazharoon) December 28, 2024

Pakistan successfully Got Early wickets
SA Second Inning 27/3 ..
Pak team Need 7 wickets to win First test Match against SA #SAvPAK | #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/kOSsmzkhDj

— IG Sports (@ImranGul898) December 28, 2024

As any fan of Hampshire (and prior to that Leicestershire) will attest, Mohammad Abbas is something special. Really pleased to see him show his magic on the big stage again #SAvPAK

— Aatif Nawaz (@AatifNawaz) December 28, 2024

Proteas 27/3 at the end of the day

Aiden Markram again looking the standout batter so far

121 more required for a spot in the WTC Final pic.twitter.com/y4N07HAPVd

— Werner (@Werries_) December 28, 2024

Stumps is called

What a day we have in store tomorrow with SA on 27-3

All hopes lie with Markram and Bavuma#SAvPAK

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 28, 2024

These two are our hope out there tomorrow especially Markram!! He looks on it again!!#SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/RuPdMM30vn

— Lawrence Bailey �?🇿🇦 (@LawrenceBailey0) December 28, 2024

Day 3 | Stumps 🟢⚪️

Test match cricket never fails to entertain, as day three comes to a close🏏

🇵🇰Pakistan: 211/10 (1st Innings)
🇿🇦South Africa: 301/10 (1st Innings)
🇵🇰Pakistan: 237/10 (2nd Innings)
🇿🇦South Africa: 27/3 (2nd Innings)

The Proteas need 121 more runs to win in�?pic.twitter.com/GNUeaSuAUm

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) December 28, 2024

2️⃣7️⃣th Test fifty for Babar Azam 👏

After 19 innings, he gets to a Test fifty🏏#Cricket #SAvPAK #BabarAzam pic.twitter.com/MbWaskKpb2

— betvisa69.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 28, 2024

Also WATCH: Aamer Jamal passionately celebrates after dismissing Temba Bavuma on Day 2 of the first Test

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa69.com.