Day 1 of the first midterm exam South Africa and Pakistan at Centurion it was marked by fierce exchanges and field conflicts. The highlight of this drama was fighting in Pakistan Kamran Ghulam is a South African pacer Kagiso Rabadaalong with the wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne. The incident, which quickly went viral, showed the intensity of the competition and the emotions of the players.
Kamran Ghulam causes chaos: Exchange fire with Kagiso Rabada and Kyle Verreynne
The light happened in the 31st over of the Pakistan innings. Rabada, chasing to deliver the second ball of the over, was forced to stop at mid-on Kamran Ghulam he left at the last minute, citing distractions and observations. Rabada, visibly angry, made his displeasure clear. In response, Ghulam lashed out with sarcastic words, directing his frustration at Rabada and Verreynne.
The stump microphone picked up Ghulam saying, “F**k you,” increasing conflict on the field. Two deliveries later, things took a turn for the worse when Ghulam exchanged abusive language with Verreynne, who started using abusive language again. The players on the field immediately intervened, warning Ghulam and trying to restore order. Sports referee, Richie Richardsonare expected to review the incident, and Ghulam may face sanctions for violating the ICC Rules. This fiery exchange set the tone for a competitive day of cricket, with emotions running high on both sides.
Here is the video:
Kamran Ghulam said “F**K YOU” to Rabada and Verreynne.
Funny that all this violence is coming from the 7th ranked team, which is struggling in the points table, while South Africa is running at 3rd place, soon to be 2nd place and looking for the WTC final. Stay in your borders Pakistan.#SAvPAK pic.twitter.com/KVcnaAdSgA
– H🇿🇦 (@MarkramBot) December 26, 2024
Also WATCH: Dane Paterson sends Babar Azam carrying on Day 1 of SA vs PAK 1st Test
Ghulam: Pakistan's only soldier
Despite his temper, Ghulam was a Pakistani freedom fighter. Walking under pressure, Ghulam hit a powerful 54 off 71 balls, with eight boundaries and a massive six. His innings made the Pakistan team struggle, but his dismissal spelled the beginning of the end for the visitors.
Ghulam's departure was of his own making, as he lowered the rail to a long-range return from. Dane Patersonover Rabada on fine leg. It was a disappointing end to what was otherwise a good innings, as Ghulam seemed to be the only batsman capable of hitting the South African ball well.
Pakistan's batting slump and South Africa's bowling dominance
Pakistan's batting continued, with no other batsman able to cross the 40-run mark. Veteran actor Babar Azamreturning to the Test fold, it only drove four laps before passing from first to second. Abdullah Shafiq (23 out of 42) and Saud Shakeel (30 out of 45) gave up a bit but failed to capitalize on the start. The team's inability to form a bond saw them bowl out for 211 all out in just 57.3 overs.
The day belonged to South Africa's bowlers, who displayed exceptional skill and discipline. Paterson was the best batsman, leapfrogging the Pakistan batting line-up with figures of 5/61. The first one Corbin Bosch he acted immediately, claiming 4/61 with his pace and ferocity. In response South Africa finished the first day on 82/3.