"A partnership on a wicket like this is gold," claimed Tony de Zorzi, after he and Ryan Rickelton led South Africa's fightback on a tense third day of the first Test in Lahore.

Their stand followed a stunning Pakistan collapse, with the hosts losing six wickets for just 17 runs after Senuran Muthusamy's inspired spell dragged the tourists back into contention.

Shan Masood (52) had built Pakistan's platform early, while Abdullah Shafique (41), Babar Azam (42) and Saud Shakeel (38) extended the lead to 259 before Muthusamy and Simon Harmer ripped through the middle and lower order.

Muthusamy's figures — the third-best ever at Gaddafi Stadium — doubled his career Test haul, claiming 11 of Pakistan's 18 wickets since Sunday.

By stumps, Rickelton and De Zorzi steadied South Africa's chase, after the latter had scored the match's only century earlier in the day.

Stumps, Day 3!

An enthralling day of Test cricket comes to a close. #TheProteas Men finish on 51/2 after 22 overs, needing a further 226 runs for victory. pic.twitter.com/SgIWJO2n2A

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 14, 2025

South Africa finished day three on 51-2, with the pair combining for 33 runs following early dismissals for Aiden Markram (three) and Wiaan Muldar (0).

"A partnership on a wicket like this is gold," De Zorzi said after play. "It's tough to start and for a new guy to get rhythm. The beginning is the toughest, but hopefully we can build a partnership and crack on."

The tourists still need 227 runs to seal a dramatic victory, leaving Pakistan firmly in control and on the verge of securing only their fifth win in 20 Tests against South Africa as they head into day four in a dominant position.

"Ricks and I keep each other present," De Zorzi added.

"We take it one ball at a time and remind each other of our options. The guys coming in are just as able, if not more talented.

"Hopefully they won't [need to], but anyone in there, if they build a partnership, it's on."