Shan Masood, Babar Azam set world record with 205-run opening stand

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Pakistan Captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam set a new record for the highest opening partnership in Test history while following on, with a remarkable 205-run stand on Day 3 of the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town.

This partnership, which eclipsed previous records, provided Pakistan a much-needed fightback after being bowled out for just 194 in their first innings. Their 205-run stand not only defied the pressure of the follow-on but also gave the visiting side a glimmer of hope to level the series.

Shan’s remarkable century, his sixth in Test cricket, and Babar’s 81 runs, which included 10 boundaries, were instrumental in keeping South Africa on the back foot. The pair's display of determination and composure on a pitch now easing for batting left the hosts helpless.

Babar, who was well on his way to scoring a long-awaited Test hundred, was dismissed at gully, but not before creating history. His partnership with Shan marked the highest-ever opening stand in a follow-on innings in Test cricket, setting a new world record.

Additionally, the pair’s stand surpassed the previous record for the highest opening partnership between Pakistan and South Africa in Tests, which stood at 133 runs by Yasir Hameed and Younis Khan in the 2006-07 season.

The historic partnership has not only rewritten the record books but also offered Pakistan a potential lifeline as they continue their fightback in a bid to level the series.

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