Babar Azam was spotted having a chat with Marko Janssen at Newlands

Pakistan is brave Babar Azam And the towering player in South Africa Marco Jansen She was seen having a short but interesting conversation during the second Test at Newlands. The moment came in the 121st over of South Africa’s innings, just as Janssen came in to bat after Kyle Vereen was dismissed. Although no microphones picked up the words exchanged, the interaction brought a rare smile to an intense encounter.

South Africa dominates Pakistan by record

By the time Janssen joined the crease, South Africa They really tightened their grip on the match. The Proteas made a massive 566 for 7, their highest home total in four years. Ryan Rickleton led the charge with an extraordinary 259, just eclipsing Stephen Fleming’s famous 262 at Newlands.

Meanwhile, Kyle Vereen added flair to the innings with a sensational hundred, his fourth in Test cricket. The wicket-keeper-batsman played with aggression and intent, smashing boundaries at will. His dismissal, in an attempt to sweep away Salman Ali Agha, did little to halt the momentum in South Africa.

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Marko Janssen, who struggled with the bat throughout 2024, found redemption on the first day of the new year. His scorching half-century came off just 42 balls, featuring six boundaries and three towering sixes. It was a display of raw power and timing, reminiscent of an experienced all-rounder.

Initially cautious, Janssen took 11 balls to get away from the mark. But as soon as he stabilized, he unleashed a flurry of shots. A four and a six off Khurram Shehzad in quick succession led to a 50th stand appearance with Rickleton in just 46 balls. Janssen’s knock was a statement, a reminder of his untapped potential with the bat.

Rickelton’s double century: a hit to remember

Earlier in the day, Ryan Rickleton became the first South African batsman in eight years to score a Test double century. Resuming his day at 176, he continued his disciplined approach, mixing caution with calculated aggression.

His defining moment came with a beautifully timed punch from the offside. The celebration was not excessive, but the achievement was enormous. Rickelton’s innings almost doubled his career Test tally, underscoring his importance to South Africa’s middle order.

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Pakistan’s struggles continue on flat ground

Despite their efforts, the Pakistani bowlers found little joy on the flattened pitch. Mohammad Abbas provided a glimmer of hope with an early wicket, leading to David Bedingham’s false stroke. But the joy was short-lived as Rickleton and Vereen continued to run.

Verreynne’s aggressive style brought the crowd to its feet several times. His bold hooks and reverse deliveries have left Pakistan searching for answers. Even as Chan Masoud rounded players up, Vereen found gaps with surgical precision.

A landmark test match

The second session turned into a landmarking exercise. Vereen’s century, Rickelton’s double ton, and Jansen’s half-century made it a memorable day for South African fans. With tea, Pakistan Hopes of a return have evaporated.

Salman Ali Agha was finally able to dispose of Rickelton, who had out-delivered for a long period. Abbas stuck to the catch, which provided a short respite for the visitors. But by then, the damage had been done.

What did Babar and Janssen talk about?

The brief interaction between Babar Azam and Marko Janssen remains a mystery. In the midst of competitive competition, such moments of camaraderie are rare. Was it a light exchange or a bit of friendly banter? We may never know, but it’s these fleeting moments that add magic to the game.

But for Pakistan, there was little to smile about when South Africa asserted its authority in Cape Town.

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