In a dramatic turn during the third day of the second Test match between South Africa and Pakistan at Newlands, emotions ran high leading to an intense confrontation between South Africa’s all-rounder Wiaan Mulder and Pakistan’s star batter Babar Azam.
Wiaan Mulder aggressively throws a ball towards Babar Azam
The tension escalated in the 32nd over of Pakistan’s second innings after being enforced to follow on. Babar, known for his calm and composed demeanor, was at the center of the controversy when Mulder, in an act of frustration, threw the ball back at him after Babar played a firm drive back to the bowler. The throw, which was neither accurate nor necessary, struck Babar on the foot, sparking immediate anger from the Pakistani batter.
Babar, visibly upset, engaged in a verbal spat with Mulder, pointing out the stumps to emphasize where the ball should have been directed. This led to a heated argument where both players exchanged words, turning the atmosphere on the field electric as teammates from both sides and umpires rushed to de-escalate the situation.
Here is the video:
Fight moment between Babar Azam and Wiaan Mulder. 🥵
Wiaan Mulder unnecessary throws the ball at Babar Azam & showing him verbal aggression. #BabarAzam𓃵 #PAKvsSA #SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/PZnPNTWELZ
— Ahtasham Riaz (@ahtashamriaz22) January 5, 2025
Also WATCH: South African commentator mocks Pakistan players’ English-speaking capabilities on Day 2 of the Cape Town Test
Pakistan comes up with strong response in follow-on
The backdrop to this incident was a match where South Africa had dominated, posting a formidable 615 in their first innings, thanks to centuries from Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma, and Kyle Verreynne. Pakistan, in response, were bowled out for just 194, setting the stage for a follow-on. The second innings started promisingly for Pakistan with Babar and captain Shan Masood putting up a record-breaking 205-run opening stand, the highest ever for Pakistan against South Africa in Test cricket.
However, the incident with Mulder seemed to momentarily disrupt the flow for Pakistan. Despite this, Babar went on to score 81 before being dismissed by Marco Jansen. The day ended with Pakistan at 213/1, trailing by 208 runs, with Masood unbeaten on 102, setting the stage for a challenging day 4 where Pakistan need to bat long to avoid an innings defeat.
Also READ: Fans erupt as Babar Azam and Shan Masood’s towering partnership keeps Pakistan alive after follow-on by South Africa in the Cape Town Test
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