South Africa produced a stunning fightback to defeat Pakistan in the second Test in Rawalpindi, levelling the two-match series 1-1. The visitors, led by spinner Simon Harmer’s match-winning spell, wrapped up the game on the fourth day as Pakistan collapsed under pressure on a turning pitch.

Pakistan’s hopes rested on captain Babar Azam, who played a valiant knock but fell short of guiding his team to safety. Babar top-scored with a composed 66 runs, displaying grit and patience against South Africa’s spin attack before Harmer dismissed him to break Pakistan’s resistance. None of the other batters managed to provide meaningful support, as wickets continued to tumble at regular intervals.

South Africa’s Simon Harmer was once again the chief destroyer, finishing with figures of 6-50 in the second innings, while Keshav Maharaj added crucial breakthroughs to seal Pakistan’s fate. Earlier, South Africa had gained a vital 71-run first-innings lead after posting 404 runs, thanks to Senuran Muthusamy’s unbeaten 89 and Kagiso Rabada’s career-best 71.

Pakistan’s debutant spinner Asif Afridi was the lone bright spot for the hosts, taking 6-79 to become the oldest debutant in Test history to claim a five-wicket haul. However, his efforts went in vain as South Africa’s lower order counter-attacked brilliantly, stretching the lead beyond Pakistan’s reach.

With the win, South Africa drew the Test series 1-1, bouncing back strongly after losing the first match in Lahore by 93 runs. The visitors’ all-round performance, anchored by Harmer’s spin and Muthusamy’s resilience, ensured they ended the series on a high note — leaving Pakistan to rue missed opportunities and batting failures in the decisive game.