The last day of the first Test between Pakistan and South Africa promises to be an intriguing one.
Going into the fifth day, only two results seem likely- a South African win or a draw. So far the Dubai Test has belonged to South Africa as they have dominated the match for more sessions than Pakistan.
Pakistan has been given a mammoth target of 451 runs to win, which looks improbable and they would consider themselves victorious if they are able to even save the match.
But they have managed a good start to their 2nd innings and at stumps, they were 109 runs for the loss of 2 wickets. They have applied themselves well so far and have given themselves a chance to draw the match.
With another 342 runs required on the 5th day, victory is out sights of http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Pakistan-c755. Azhar Ali and Younis Khan made sure that Pakistan does not face any more hiccups before the stumps. Although Azhar faced a terrifying blow on his thumb from Dale
Steyn during the later part of the day, he showed courage and survived till the end.
His injury looks serious and Pakistan would be hoping and praying that Azhar remains available for the 5th day because of his solid technique and temperament to stay at the crease for long periods of time, which he has proved in the both the innings
so far.
On a track that is offering assistance to spinners, Pakistan would look at their senior players like Younis Khan and the captain Misbah ul Haq to take the responsibility, while the youngsters like Azhar Ali and the Akmal brothers can bat around them.
South African bowling is definitely going to test the Pakistani batsmen and their true character. http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Morne-Morkel-c77722 are in supreme form with Paul Harris playing a supporting role.
The only disadvantage that http://www.senore.com/Cricket/Dale-c52110 Steyn. Although he is bowling short spells but is bowling well within himself.
South Africa will be looking to dry up things for Pakistani batsmen similar to the way they did in their first innings and hope that they play rash shots.
On Day 4, South Africa declared their 2nd innings at 318 runs for the loss of only two wickets. Hashim Amla and Jaques Kallis scored unbeaten tons and once again proved that both of them are high quality test players with class, temperament and
a wide range of stroke-play. They were in full control of the proceedings and were never troubled by the Pakistani bowlers apart from a couple of occasions.
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