De Zorzi’s fighting century stands out amid South Africa’s struggles

Lahore, 14 October 2025:

South Africa’s left-handed batter Tony de Zorzi produced a resilient century on the third day of the first Test against Pakistan at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, registering his second hundred in Test cricket. The 28-year-old, who made his debut against the West Indies in 2023, showcased composure and determination in challenging conditions to score 104, helping his side avoid a deeper collapse.

De Zorzi’s innings, laced with 10 fours and two sixes, stood out as the highlight of South Africa’s innings, which folded for 269 in 84 overs before lunch, handing Pakistan a 109-run first-innings lead. Coming in when wickets were tumbling at regular intervals, the left-hander combined solid defence with fluent strokeplay, particularly through the off side, to hold the innings together.

His century follows a career-best 171 against Bangladesh in Chattogram in October 2024, reaffirming his growing stature in the South African middle order. While his knock offered brief resistance, he received little support from the other end as Pakistan’s spinners maintained pressure throughout the session.

Despite the team’s struggles, de Zorzi’s disciplined approach and ability to build an innings under pressure have once again underlined his potential to become a mainstay in South Africa’s Test lineup. His effort, though in vain this time, remains a lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting display for the visitors.