CAPE TOWN: Ryan Rickelton and skipper Temba Bavuma rescued South Africa on day one of the second Test at Newlands with brilliant centuries. Their efforts helped the home side reach 316/4 at stumps on Friday.
The pair formed a remarkable 235-run partnership for the fourth wicket, stabilizing the innings after early setbacks. Bavuma eventually fell in the 77th over, caught behind off Salman Ali Agha. The South African captain scored a composed 106 off 179 balls, including nine fours and two sixes.
After Bavuma’s dismissal, Rickelton continued his dominant innings alongside David Bedingham. The two added nine runs before play ended for the day. Rickelton remained unbeaten on a spectacular 176 from 232 balls, laced with 21 boundaries and a six. Bedingham was not out on 4.
Pakistan’s bowlers faced a tough day, with Agha taking two wickets. Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas picked up one wicket each.
Earlier in the day, South Africa’s openers Aiden Markram and Rickelton provided a steady start. They added 61 runs before Khurram dismissed Markram for 17. Wiaan Mulder, returning from a thumb injury, failed to make an impact, scoring just 5 before Abbas removed him. Tristan Stubbs was sent back for a duck by Agha, leaving the hosts at 72/3.
Rickelton and Bavuma then took charge, frustrating Pakistan’s bowlers. By the tea break, Rickelton had reached 106 not out, with 14 boundaries, while Bavuma was on 51.
Pakistan also suffered a setback as Saim Ayub, their left-handed opening batter, was ruled out of the match. Ayub twisted his ankle during the opening session while fielding near the boundary. The 22-year-old was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for X-rays and an MRI. Specialists in London will review his reports to determine further treatment and recovery time.
The incident occurred when Ryan Rickelton guided a delivery from Mohammad Abbas through the slips. As Ayub attempted to relay the ball from Aamir Jamal’s throw, he lost his balance and stumbled. Ayub was clearly in discomfort as he was helped off the field.
South Africa currently leads the two-match series 1-0 after a hard-fought victory in Centurion.
