CAPE TOWN: South Africa enjoyed a strong start in the New Year’s Test against Pakistan, reaching 316/4 on the opening day. Opting to bat first after winning the toss, the hosts were powered by centuries from captain Temba Bavuma (106) and Ryan Rickelton (176*). Rickelton and David Bedingham (4*) were at the crease when play was called off for the day.

Aiden Markram (17), Vian Mulder (5), and Tristan Stubbs (0) were the other wickets to fall for South Africa, apart from Bavuma. Rickelton, who faced 232 deliveries, scored 176 runs, including 21 fours and a six. Bavuma, on the other hand, brought up his century off 179 deliveries, hitting nine fours and two sixes. For Pakistan, Salman Ali Agha took two wickets, while Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas claimed one wicket each. South Africa had earlier qualified for the World Test Championship final by winning the first Test of the series by two wickets.

In a blow to Pakistan, young star Saim Ayub was ruled out of the Test after injuring his right ankle while fielding. The 22-year-old, a key player for Pakistan, has undergone scans and the results have been sent to London for further analysis. Ayub is an important member of the Pakistan squad, which is preparing for the Champions Trophy next month.