The Day 1 of the first Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Centurion was marked by heated exchanges and on-field controversies. The highlight of the drama involved Pakistan batter Kamran Ghulam and South African pacer Kagiso Rabada, along with wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne. The incident, which quickly went viral, showcased the intensity of the contest and the emotions running high among players.
Kamran Ghulam causes stir: Heated exchange with Kagiso Rabada and Kyle Verreynne
The flashpoint occurred during the 31st over of Pakistan’s innings. Rabada, charging in to deliver the second ball of the over, was forced to stop midway when Kamran Ghulam pulled away at the last moment, citing a distraction with the sightscreen. Rabada, visibly agitated, expressed his displeasure in no uncertain terms. In response, Ghulam lashed out with an expletive, directing his frustration toward both Rabada and Verreynne.
Stump microphones clearly picked up Ghulam saying, “F**k you,” escalating tensions on the field. Two deliveries later, the situation further deteriorated as Ghulam engaged in another verbal spat with Verreynne, once again resorting to abusive language. The on-field umpires promptly intervened, cautioning Ghulam and attempting to restore calm. The match referee, Richie Richardson, is expected to review the incident, and Ghulam may face sanctions for breaching the ICC’s Code of Conduct. This fiery exchange set the tone for a competitive day of cricket, with emotions running high on both sides.
Here’s the video:
Kamran Ghulam said “F**K YOU” to Rabada and Verreynne.
Funny how all this aggression is coming from a team ranked No. 7, struggling on the points table, while South Africa is cruising at No. 3, soon to be No. 2 and eyeing the WTC final. Be in your limit Pakistan.#SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/KVcnaAdSgA
— H🇿🇦 (@MarkramBot) December 26, 2024
Also WATCH: Dane Paterson sends Babar Azam packing on Day 1 of the SA vs PAK 1st Test
Ghulam: A lone warrior for Pakistan
Despite his heated moments, Ghulam was the standout batter for Pakistan. Walking in under pressure, Ghulam played an aggressive knock of 54 off 71 balls, featuring eight crisp boundaries and a towering six. His innings briefly steadied Pakistan’s faltering lineup, but his dismissal signaled the beginning of the end for the visitors.
Ghulam’s departure was self-inflicted, as he charged down the track to a back-of-a-length delivery from Dane Paterson, top-edging it to Rabada at fine leg. It was a frustrating end to an otherwise promising innings, as Ghulam appeared to be the only batter capable of handling South Africa’s disciplined bowling attack.
Pakistan’s batting collapse and South Africa’s bowling dominance
Pakistan’s batting struggles continued, with no other player managing to cross the 40-run mark. Former skipper Babar Azam, returning to the Test fold, managed only four runs before nicking one to second slip. Abdullah Shafique (23 off 42) and Saud Shakeel (30 off 45) offered brief resistance but failed to capitalize on their starts. The team’s inability to build partnerships left them reeling at 211 all out in just 57.3 overs.
The day belonged to South Africa’s bowlers, who showcased exceptional skill and discipline. Paterson was the standout performer, ripping through Pakistan’s batting lineup with figures of 5/61. Debutant Corbin Bosch made an instant impact, claiming 4/61 with his raw pace and aggression. In response South Africa finished the first day at 82/3.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: South Africa rule Day 1 in Centurion as Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch devastate Pakistan’s batting
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