Day 1 of the first Test between them South Africa and Pakistan Centurion was marked by heated exchanges and arguments on the field. The highlight of the drama was the beating of Pakistan Kamran Ghulam and the South African pacer Kagiso Rabadaalong with the goalkeeper Kyle Verreyne. The incident, which quickly went viral, showcased the intensity of the competition and the high emotions among the players.
Kamran Ghulam makes noise: heated exchange with Kagiso Rabada and Kyle Verreynne
The breaking point came during the 31st of Pakistan’s innings. Rabada, who attacked to deliver the second ball over the top, had to stop halfway Kamran Ghulam at the last moment he walked away citing the screen as a distraction. Rabada, clearly agitated, expressed his displeasure in no uncertain terms. In response, Ghoulam directed his frustration at both Rabada and Verreynne with insults.
Mass microphones clearly picked up Ghulam: “F**k you” increasing tension on the field. After two deliveries, things got worse as Ghulam once again got into a verbal spat with Verreynne, resorting to abusive language. The referees on the field immediately intervened, warned Ghulam and tried to restore calm. Referee of the match Richie Richardsonis expected to review the incident and Ghulam may face sanctions for violating the ICC Code of Conduct. This fiery exchange set the tone for a competitive day of cricket, with emotions running high on both sides.
We present the video:
Kamran Ghulam said “F**K YOU” to Raba and Verreyn.
It’s funny how all this aggression comes from a struggling No. 7 team in the points table, while South Africa is at No. 3, soon to be No. 2 and waiting for the WTC final. Be Pakistan at the limit.#SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/KVcnaAdSgA
— H🇿🇦 (@MarkramBot) December 26, 2024
Also WATCH: Dane Paterson sends Babar Azam packing on Day 1 of SA vs PAK 1st Test
Ghulam: A lone batsman for Pakistan
Despite his hot moments, Ghulam was a standout hit for Pakistan. Going under pressure, Ghulam hit an aggressive 54 off 71 balls with eight accurate boundaries and a powerful six. His innings briefly stabilized Pakistan’s waning line-up, but his dismissal heralded the beginning of the end for the visitors.
Ghulam’s departure took its toll on him, as he was set to deliver a little further down the track. Dane PatersonTop edge to Rabada with fine leg. It was a frustrating end to an otherwise promising innings as Ghulam looked like the only batsman 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 batsman able to cross the 40-run mark. Former skipper Babar AzamReturning to the Test fold, he managed just four runs before hitting one-two slips. Abdullah Shafiq (23 off 42) and Saud Shakil (30 off 45) resisted briefly but failed to capitalize on his starts. The team’s inability to form a partnership saw them score 211 in just 57.3 overs.
The day belonged to the South African bowlers who displayed exceptional skill and discipline. Paterson was the standout performer, tearing through Pakistan’s batting line-up with figures of 5/61. Debutante Corbin Bosch made an instant impact with his claim of 4/61 with his raw pace and aggression. In response South Africa finished the first day at 82/3.
