Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq believes his team must cross the 400-run mark in the first innings to gain control of the ongoing Test against South Africa in Lahore. Imam, who fell seven runs short of a well-deserved century, shared his thoughts during the post-day press conference, expressing confidence in his side’s batting lineup.
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“If we get a total of 400 plus, it will be good for us,” Imam said. “South Africa is a competitive side, and their response tomorrow will be crucial for the match.”
South Africa’s Simon Harmer, who claimed the key wicket of Pakistan skipper Babar Azam, had a different target in mind. “If we can restrict Pakistan below 400, it will be really very good,” Harmer stated, outlining the visitors’ strategy for the upcoming day.
Imam noted that the Gaddafi Stadium pitch provided more turn than expected, making batting slightly tricky. “We were not expecting much spin even on the first day, but it was more than our expectations,” he said. “When we were involved in big partnerships, it seemed fine, but after losing wickets, the pitch started helping the spinners more.”
Reflecting on Pakistan’s collapse at 199 for five, Imam praised the partnership between Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha that helped Pakistan regain control. “When I and Saud lost our wickets, it looked like South Africa had made a comeback. But Rizwan and Salman’s stand put us back in a comfortable position,” he said.
On missing his century, Imam admitted feeling disappointed but viewed his innings as a positive sign after returning to the team following a long break. “It was a good knock after a two-year comeback, but it could have been 150 had I improved a few areas,” he shared. “Pakistani players must continue improving to play match-winning roles, and I aim to work on that.”
The left-hander also praised the crowd’s energy, which added to the excitement of the opening day. The Pakistan Cricket Board had allowed free entry, attracting a large turnout, although only four enclosures were open, leading to long queues outside. “A good crowd watched the first day’s play, and it’s a positive sign for Test cricket in Pakistan,” Imam added.
Meanwhile, Harmer credited South Africa’s bowlers for maintaining discipline despite limited success. “We created chances; we didn’t go away,” he said. “In the subcontinent, you need a bit of luck — a drag-on, a nick, or an umpire’s call. Maybe tomorrow, things will go our way.”
South Africa had an early breakthrough when Kagiso Rabada trapped Abdullah Shafique leg-before in the opening over. However, Pakistan’s top order stabilized before Shan Masood’s solid knock of 76 ended in the 48th over, courtesy of spinner Prenelan Subrayen.
Commenting on pitch conditions, Harmer predicted it would deteriorate further as the game progresses. “The odd ball is turning, but I think it will get lower because the ball deteriorates quickly,” he noted. “Bounce and the ball keeping low will play a role from tomorrow.”
With Pakistan aiming to reach 400 and South Africa determined to hold them back, the Test promises an intriguing contest between two evenly matched sides. Both teams now look to seize early control as the battle at the Gaddafi Stadium continues.
