South Africa’s opening batter Ryan Rickelton delivered a stunning performance, scoring a massive 259 runs on Day 2 of the second Test against Pakistan in Cape Town. His incredible knock helped South Africa build a monumental total of 615 runs, putting them in a commanding position. Rickelton’s innings equaled Graeme Smith’s iconic 259 against England at Lord’s in 2003, making it the joint-seventh-highest score ever by a South African in Test cricket.

The 28-year-old’s innings was not only remarkable in size but also speed. Rickelton hit 29 fours and three sixes during his stay at the crease, facing just 343 balls. This made his 259 the fastest among all 250-plus scores by South African batters, with an impressive strike rate of 75.51.

Rickelton wasn’t alone in his heroics. Captain Temba Bavuma scored 106, while wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne contributed an unbeaten 100. Marco Jansen added a blistering 62 off just 54 balls, and Keshav Maharaj chipped in with a quick-fire 40 off 35 deliveries. Together, they ensured South Africa dominated with the bat, adding 299 runs on Day 2 alone, scoring nearly five runs per over.

By stumps, Pakistan found themselves in trouble at 64-3, still trailing by a massive 551 runs. Key batters Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan managed to steady the innings after a rough start. However, the absence of their opener Saim Ayub due to a broken ankle—sidelining him for six weeks—left Pakistan struggling.

Verreynne reflected on South Africa’s strong position, saying they’re focused on taking the remaining nine wickets and then dealing with Pakistan’s tailenders. With three days left in the match and South Africa already secured a spot in the World Test Championship final, their sights are set on achieving a seventh consecutive Test victory.

Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen got early breakthroughs for South Africa, leaving Pakistan under immense pressure. Babar Azam, pushed to open due to Ayub’s injury, remained unbeaten on 31 at the close of play.

Rickelton’s innings lasted an extraordinary 607 minutes before he was dismissed going for a big hit. His partnership with Verreynne was particularly vital, with the duo adding 148 runs together. Verreynne praised Rickelton’s calmness and energy despite batting through nearly two full days.

South Africa’s tailenders added quick runs to pile on Pakistan’s misery. Jansen and Maharaj attacked the bowlers before debutant Kwena Maphaka was bowled for a duck to bring the innings to an end. At just 18 years old, Maphaka became South Africa’s youngest Test player.

For Pakistan, Mohammad Abbas stood out with three wickets and became the leading wicket-taker in the series after being recalled to the team following a three-year gap. He expressed satisfaction with his personal performance but admitted he’d be happier if his team were winning.

South Africa is now in full control of the match as they look to wrap up yet another Test victory.