South Africa are chasing a target of 277 to win the first Test in Lahore after left-arm spinner Senuran Muthusamy produced a career-defining performance, claiming a maiden 10-wicket match haul that dismantled Pakistan on Tuesday.

Muthusamy’s brilliance — with figures of 5-57 in the second innings to complement his 6-117 in the first — turned the tide decisively in South Africa’s favor.

Partnering with Simon Harmer, who bagged 4-51, the duo spun Pakistan out for just 167, collapsing from 150-5 to all out after losing six wickets for a mere 17 runs.

Earlier, Pakistan had fought hard through Saud Shakeel’s gritty 38 and Mohammad Rizwan’s unbeaten 14, but the relentless spin attack proved too much.

Pakistan’s own spinners had earlier dominated too — Noman Ali picking up 6-112 and Sajid Khan claiming 3-98, giving Pakistan a slender 109-run first-innings lead.

South Africa’s Tony de Zorzi was the standout with the bat, striking a composed 104 to keep his side in the contest, while the Gaddafi Stadium’s turning track continued to challenge both teams.

With 277 runs separating South Africa from victory and Pakistan hungry for wickets, the stage is set for a thrilling finish — one that highlights the enduring spirit, patience, and unpredictability that make Test cricket so captivating.