Pakistan use genius tactic to prepare spin-friendly graveyard for SA in Rawalpindi Test

Pakistan tactics vs South Africa [Source: AFP Photo]

Pakistan thrashed South Africa in the first Test match of the series in Lahore to take a 1-0 lead. The home side were under pressure to deliver the goods, and they performed exceedingly well to decimate the reigning WTC champions in a one-sided battle. Now, with the first Test done and dusted, the caravan moves towards the second game of the series in Rawalpindi.

Pakistan prepared a spinning deck for the first Test match as the Proteas were trapped in the spin-web. Noman Ali ran riot with a 10-wicket haul as the hosts captured the first Test by 93 runs. Ahead of the second game, pitch details have been revealed for the Rawalpindi Test, and the curator is planning something special.

Pakistan deploy fans to trap Proteas in spin web

Rawalpindi is one of the flattest wickets in Pakistan, assisting the batters. However, Pakistan has deployed large fans near the pitch area to dry out the surface before the game begins. The ground staff installed two large-sized fans at each end of the pitch, as they help to dry out the moisture.

The pitch was left uncovered in the Rawalpindi heat so that the pitch would get as dry as possible before the Test match, and the Pakistan spinners would come into effect.

How this tactics would help Pakistan in Rawalpindi

As witnessed in the first Test, the Proteas batters struggled against Noman Ali and Sajid Khan, and crumbled against the two wily spin bowlers. Expect something on similar lines as the dry pitch will allow the ball to spin from day 1 itself.

South Africa generally are excellent players of pace bowling, but in Rawalpindi, Pakistan will look to exploit their spin weakness as the fans will dry the surface, and the hosts will bring extra spinners to torment the visiting side.

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