Kwena Maphaka sacks Babar Azam over championship exam

Kwena Maphakthe youngest South African Test debutant, grabbed the headlines with a memorable performance against Pakistan. The 18-year-old fast bowler claimed his first Test wicket by dismissing the Pakistan captain, Babar Azamon the third day of the ongoing second Test at Newlands, Cape Town.

A dream start for Kwena Maphaka

Maphaka, making his debut for South Africa The national cricket team bowled with precision and composure throughout the match. He consistently reached a speed of around 140 km/h and troubled the Pakistani batsmen with his precise lines and lengths.

It was only a matter of time before the young pacer won gold. In the Day 3 morning session, Maphaka removed Babar Azam, who looked well set for a big score. Babar’s innings of 58 off 127 balls, with seven boundaries, delivered Pakistan hoping for a strong response.

How Maphaka sacked Babar Azam

Maphaka’s performance to dismiss Babar was not a textbook take on the ball. Spinning on the outside of the leg stump, it stayed a little low. Babar tried to glance it off his flanks, but ended up tipping it to goalkeeper Kyle Verreynne. The South African keeper took a sharp, low catch, sending Babar back to the pavilion.

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The dismissal was a significant development for South Africa and a “look in the notebook” moment for Maphaka. The ecstatic celebration of the young bowler, who ran across the field with a big smile, showed his joy and relief at taking his first Test wicket.

Pakistan struggle in Newlands Test

Babar Azam’s dismissal came at a critical moment of the match. Pakistan, who were already behind, needed their captain to anchor the innings. His departure left Mohammad Rizwan and the lower row with a mountain to climb.

South Africa’s bowlers continued to dominate, reducing Pakistan to 91/3 in the first session. With Saim Ayub ruled out with an ankle injury, Pakistan’s batting line-up is further weakened. South Africa gained momentum heading into the series.

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