The third Test between South Africa and Pakistan in Faisalabad in 1997 was a showcase of cricket at its most unpredictable and compelling. South Africa, led by Hansie Cronje, managed to clinch the series with a surprising victory on a pitch that had been prepared to encourage results, following an edict from the PCB chief executive, Majid Khan.
The match began with South Africa batting first, quickly finding themselves in a precarious position at 30 for four, courtesy of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis’s devastating seam and swing attack. The situation worsened to 99 for seven at lunch. However, a resilient stand between Gary Kirsten and Pat Symcox, highlighted by Symcox’s aggressive 81 off 94 balls, steered South Africa to a somewhat respectable first innings total of 239. Kirsten’s innings was particularly notable as he became the first South African to carry his bat in a Test since Jackie McGlew in 1961-62, finishing with exactly 100 runs.
Pakistan’s reply mirrored South Africa’s innings, struggling initially but then stabilized by a significant partnership between Inzamam-ul-Haq and Moin Khan, which took Pakistan to a first innings lead of 69. Despite the initial setbacks, South Africa’s second innings saw another crucial contribution from Symcox, who hit a gritty 55, setting Pakistan a target of 146.
The final innings of the match was where the real drama unfolded. Shaun Pollock, delivering a masterclass in disciplined bowling, took five wickets, causing a collapse in the Pakistani batting lineup. Symcox, turning from batter to bowler, sealed the victory for South Africa with three crucial wickets, dismissing Pakistan for just 92 runs.
This match was not just about cricketing skill but also about mental fortitude. Symcox’s impassioned speech to his teammates about seizing the moment proved prophetic as South Africa turned the match on its head. His all-round performance earned him the Man of the Match, while Gary Kirsten and Mushtaq Ahmed were named Men of the Series for their respective teams.
The Faisalabad Test of 1997 will be remembered for its thrilling turnaround, showcasing that in cricket, the game is not over until the last ball is bowled. South Africa’s victory, against the run of play, highlighted the unpredictable nature of the sport and the importance of resilience and seizing opportunities.
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