SA vs Pakistan 2nd Test: Controversy, Determination, and Dominance
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Shan Masood Questions Hawkeye After LBW Decision
Pakistan captain Shan Masood was left puzzled after a controversial LBW dismissal on the final day of the second Test match against South Africa in Cape Town. Masood, who scored a resilient 145 runs, was initially ruled not out by umpire Nitin Menon when left-arm pacer Kwena Maphaka trapped him on the back pad. However, upon South Africa’s review, Hawkeye technology overturned the decision, deeming the ball to be hitting off stump.
Masood expressed doubts about the accuracy of Hawkeye’s trajectory. “It was an outswinger. I was beaten on the outside edge, but Hawkeye showed it as an inswinger. I was baffled,” said Masood, questioning the reliability of the ball-tracking system.
- Shan Masood scored a marathon 145 runs in Pakistan’s second innings.
- A controversial Hawkeye decision overturned his LBW ruling.
- Masood criticized the trajectory shown by the ball-tracking system.
Disputed Trajectory Sparks Debate
Masood highlighted inconsistencies in the technology. “The ball jagged away, but Hawkeye showed it straightening. Even visually, it felt outside the line. I was hit further outside the leg, but Hawkeye displayed otherwise.”
This decision sparked frustration for Masood, who gestured multiple times on his way back to the pavilion, mimicking the outswing trajectory. He called on cricket administrators to evaluate the technology’s fairness, emphasizing the importance of accurate decisions.
South Africa Capitalizes on Final Session Collapse
Pakistan’s fightback was powered by a determined stand between Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha, who added vital runs to narrow the deficit to just 23. By tea, Pakistan had reached 398-5, looking to set a competitive target.
However, South Africa’s bowlers, led by spinner Keshav Maharaj, triggered a dramatic collapse. Maharaj dismissed Rizwan, Salman, and Aamer Jamal, while Kagiso Rabada cleaned up the tail. Pakistan’s innings folded for 478, leaving South Africa a modest target of 58 runs.
David Bedingham Seals the Deal
Promoted to open the innings, David Bedingham ensured there were no hiccups in South Africa’s chase. His aggressive knock of 44 not out from just 30 balls guided the team to a commanding victory in only 43 balls.
South Africa’s clean sweep of the two-Test series showcased their dominance, while Pakistan was left reflecting on missed opportunities and controversial moments.
Controversial Decisions Define the Day
Masood wasn’t the only batter to be involved in a disputed LBW decision. Before lunch, Saud Shakeel survived a similar appeal off Maphaka’s bowling. Umpire Menon ruled it not out, and South Africa chose not to review. Hawkeye later indicated the ball would have hit leg stump, adding another layer of intrigue to the use of technology in the game.
Pakistan’s Performance: Highlights and Lows
Despite the defeat, Pakistan had moments to cherish:
- Shan Masood’s 145: A captain’s knock under pressure.
- Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha’s Partnership: Displayed resilience to rebuild the innings.
- Mir Hamza’s Lower-Order Contribution: Added crucial runs.
However, their collapse in the final session underscored a lack of depth in the batting lineup.
South Africa’s Bowlers Shine
South Africa’s bowlers excelled in both innings:
- Keshav Maharaj: Key wickets in Pakistan’s collapse.
- Kagiso Rabada: Consistent with the new ball and cleaned up the tail.
- Kwena Maphaka: Instrumental in breaking partnerships.
Conclusion: A Series to Remember
South Africa’s series win highlights their all-around strength, while Pakistan’s struggles with consistency and controversial decisions leave them with lessons to learn. The role of technology in cricket remains a critical discussion point following Shan Masood’s dismissal, emphasizing the need for continued improvements in the game’s decision-making systems.