Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Noman Ali excelled in the opening Test match against South Africa in Lahore, taking a remarkable 10 wickets and significantly contributing to the team’s pursuit of victory. At 39 years old, Noman’s performance marked his third 10-wicket haul, underscoring his effectiveness on home soil. Since adopting spin-friendly pitches, Pakistan has seen success at home, defeating England last year and recently drawing the series against the West Indies.
Noman’s bowling prowess was on full display as he challenged the South African batsmen’s defense. After claiming 6 wickets for 112 runs in the first innings, he added 4 more in the second, drawing level with Nathan Lyon for the most 10-wicket matches in the World Test Championship (WTC) history, with three such hauls. Other notable bowlers include India’s Ravindra Jadeja and New Zealand’s Ajaz Patel, each with two 10-fers, as well as Noman’s spin partner, Sajid Khan.
Noman’s final wicket in the match came from Dewald Brevis, who was making strides with a run-a-ball 54. Brevis had posed a challenge as South Africa sought to close the gap, but Noman managed to bowl a delivery that turned sharply, hitting the off-stump and giving Pakistan a vital breakthrough.
South Africa was still 140 runs shy of an improbable victory, but with Sajid Khan dismissing the settled batsman Ryan Rickelton, Pakistan sensed a win within reach, needing just four more wickets. Over the last five Test matches, Noman has claimed an impressive 46 wickets, solidifying his status as a key asset for Pakistan in home Tests.
