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Muthusamy unleashes mayhem as Pakistan fold

football13 October 2025 12:42| © SuperSport
By:Mpho Selowa
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In a gripping display of spin bowling mastery, Senuran Muthusamy ripped through Pakistan’s batting line-up on day two of the first test in Lahore, claiming a sensational 6-wicket haul that breathed life into South Africa’s campaign.

With the hosts looking well-set at 278-4 and threatening to post a mammoth first-innings total, Muthusamy stepped up with a spell that will be remembered for its precision, patience, and punch. The left-arm spinner exploited the wearing surface with guile and control, triggering a collapse that saw Pakistan lose their final six wickets for just 100 runs.

His first breakthrough came with a sharp turner that trapped Saud Shakeel plumb in front. From there, it was a procession. He outfoxed the dangerous Agha Salman with flight, had Faheem Ashraf caught at slip with a beauty that gripped and bounced, and cleaned up the tail with ruthless efficiency.

Muthusamy’s final figures of 6 for 117 marked his best in test cricket and a career-defining performance under pressure. More than just numbers, it was the timing of his strikes that shifted momentum. Each wicket chipped away at Pakistan’s confidence, and by the time the innings folded at 378, South Africa had clawed their way back into the contest.

The Proteas’ fielders rallied behind their spinner, with sharp catches and vocal support, turning the heat up on a Pakistan side that had looked in control for much of the innings.

As the players walked off, it was Muthusamy who led them, ball in hand, a quiet storm who had just shaken the foundations of Pakistan’s batting fortress.

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