South Africa vs Pakistan, Live Updates: South Africa Dominates Day 2 of the Second Test

The 2nd Test of Pakistan's tour of South Africa, 2024/25, saw South Africa asserting dominance on Day 2. With a formidable total of 429/5 after 107 overs, the hosts are in a commanding position, thanks to Ryan Rickelton's remarkable double century and Kyle Verreynne's aggressive half-century.

Key Highlights from Day 2

New Ball Taken

Overs: 80.1

South Africa stood at 316/5 when Pakistan took the new ball. However, the fresh ball didn't trouble the South African batters much as Rickelton and Verreynne continued to pile on the runs.

Referral Drama

85.4 Overs: Pakistan reviewed an LBW decision against Ryan Rickelton, but the referral was unsuccessful.

Review Count: South Africa (3), Pakistan (2).

97.4 Overs: Pakistan reviewed an LBW appeal against Kyle Verreynne, which also turned out unsuccessful.

Review Count: South Africa (3), Pakistan (1).

Milestones Achieved

Ryan Rickelton's Double Century:

200 runs off 266 balls, including 24 fours and 1 six.

Rickelton displayed impeccable patience and shot selection, guiding South Africa to a commanding total.

Kyle Verreynne's Half-Century:

Reached his fifty in just 70 balls, smashing 6 fours and 2 sixes.

His aggressive approach complemented Rickelton's steady innings, frustrating the Pakistani bowlers.

Key Partnerships

The partnership between Ryan Rickelton and Kyle Verreynne proved to be pivotal:

6th Wicket Partnership:

Scored 102 runs off 132 balls.

Rickelton contributed 31 runs, while Verreynne scored a brisk 70 runs.

Score Progression

Session Highlights (Post-Lunch):

100-105 Overs:

South Africa added 41 runs during this phase, with Kyle Verreynne launching a counterattack.

Key Moments:

101.4 Overs: Verreynne smashed a six to bring up South Africa's 401/5.

105.4 Overs: Another six by Verreynne pushed the score to 425/5.

105-107 Overs:

Verreynne continued to dominate, hitting a boundary on 105.5 overs, bringing the total to 429/5.

Rickelton remained steady at the other end, ensuring no further wickets fell.

Player Statistics (At 107 Overs)

South Africa:

Ryan Rickelton: 213 runs off 295 balls, anchoring the innings with exceptional stroke play.

Kyle Verreynne: 74 runs off 88 balls, adding quick runs with his aggressive approach.

Pakistan Bowlers:

Salman Agha: 2 wickets for 77 runs in 25 overs.

Mohammad Abbas: 2 wickets for 70 runs in 24 overs.

Aamer Jamal: Struggled with figures of 0/103 in 17 overs.

Mir Hamza: Economical but wicketless, conceding 81 runs in 19 overs.

Memorable Shots

105.5 Overs:

Kyle Verreynne drove a half-volley straight past the bowler for a beautiful boundary.

101.4 Overs:

Verreynne smashed a massive six, showcasing his ability to clear the boundary effortlessly.

97.3 Overs:

A classic cover drive from Verreynne brought another four, displaying his flair and timing.

Score Summary (End of Day 2):

South Africa: 429/5 in 107 overs.

Ryan Rickelton: 213* (295 balls).

Kyle Verreynne: 74* (88 balls).

Pakistan Bowling:

Salman Agha: 2/77.

Mohammad Abbas: 2/70.

Analysis

South Africa has put itself in a dominant position with Rickelton's marathon innings and Verreynne's explosive batting. Pakistan will need early breakthroughs on Day 3 to make a comeback. For now, the hosts look set to build an imposing first-innings total.