Keshav Maharaj led the charge with a five-wicket haul for South Africa as they clawed their way back into the second Test against Pakistan.

While Pakistan still lead by 148 runs as the Proteas finished on 185-4 at stumps, the hosts will be disappointed in how their first innings finished.

After starting day two on 259-5, Pakistan were bowled out for 333 as they lost their final five wickets for just 17 runs.

Maharaj (7-102) removed Saud Shakeel (66) and Salman Agha (45) in back-to-back overs before rattling through the tailenders.

South Africa openers Aiden Markram (32) and Ryan Rickleton (14) were dismissed by Sajid Khan (1-55) and Shaheen Shah Afridi (1-43) respectively, but Tristan Stubbs (68 not out) and Tony de Zorzi (55) put together a 113-run stand to get things back on track.

However, Asif Ali trapped De Zorzi lbw before sending Dewald Brevis back to the dressing room for a duck, with things remaining balanced in Rawalpindi heading into day three.

Stumps, Day 2! 

A late twist in Rawalpindi as momentum swings at the close of play. #TheProteas Men finish on 185/4 after 65 overs, trailing by 148 runs with plenty still to play for tomorrow.  pic.twitter.com/kk2C5wj5AU

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) October 21, 2025

Data Debrief: Maharaj checks another team off the list

Maharaj’s two wickets at the end of day one helped the Proteas gain some momentum, and he followed it up with an even better performance on day two.

He now holds the best bowling figures for a South African bowler in Pakistan (7-102), with his final wicket being his 22nd in nine innings against them.

It was also Maharaj’s 12th five-wicket haul in the format, but his first against Pakistan. He has now achieved this feat against every side he has faced in Test matches other than India.