In a memorable moment for South African cricket, 18-year-old debutant Kwena Maphaka claimed his first-ever Test wicket in the ongoing match against Pakistan.

The young pacer made a significant impact by dismissing the in-form Babar Azam, who was poised for a substantial score after registering his second consecutive Test half-century. Maphaka's achievement is all the more remarkable, given that he is South Africa's youngest-ever Test debutant.

Babar Azam seems to have moved away from his recent woes in Test cricket, regaining the form during the ongoing series. After averaging a dismal 20.7 in his last nine Tests, with a highest score of just 41, Babar seemed to have rediscovered his touch.

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His innings of 58 runs, crafted from 127 deliveries and adorned with seven elegant boundaries, showcased his trademark controlled strokes and swift running between the wickets.

Day 3 saw an incredibly eventful morning where the young Kwena Maphaka struck early to remove Babar Azam. The delivery from Maphaka, angling in from the outside leg stump, was not particularly menacing, but nonetheless, it worked.

The ball stayed just a bit low, and Babar tried to dance them off his hips, resulting in a feeble edge. Kyle Verreynne, displayed fine reflexes in snaffling the catch, and just like that, Babar was gone after what seemed like a particularly promising innings.

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While the delivery itself was not a wicket-taking gem, Maphaka's breakthrough was a testament to his potential and ability to make an impact.

The moment Babar Azam was dismissed, Kwena Maphaka erupted in joy, sprinting away from the scene with an unbridled grin spreading across his face.


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