NEW DELHI: South Africa ended day one at 82 for three wickets in response to Pakistan's first innings total of 211 in the first Test at Centurion on Thursday.
Pakistan's bowlers made crucial breakthroughs, with Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas dismantling the hosts' top order.
South Africa now trail by 129 runs, with Khurram removing Tony de Zorzi (2) and Ryan Rickelton (8), whilst Abbas, returning to Test cricket after three years, dismissed Tristan Stubbs (9) lbw.
Aiden Markram remains unbeaten on 47, batting alongside captain Temba Bavuma (4 not out), as they look to continue on Friday.
On a bowler-friendly surface, both sides opted for all-pace attacks. South Africa's Dane Paterson and debutant Corbin Bosch proved effective after winning the toss. Paterson claimed 5-61 in 16 overs, whilst Bosch achieved a remarkable feat, becoming the 25th cricketer to take a wicket with his first Test delivery, dismissing Pakistan captain Shan Masood.
Bosch, drafted in due to injuries to regular fast bowlers, finished with 4-63 from 15 overs. His maiden wicket came when Masood was caught by Marco Jansen at third slip, whilst Paterson secured his second consecutive five-wicket haul in Tests.
The 35-year-old Paterson, who took 5-71 against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha last month, continued his fine form. He dismissed Saim Ayub (14) and Babar Azam (4), who returned to the side after being dropped during Pakistan's previous series against England.
Post-lunch, Paterson ended a promising 81-run fifth-wicket partnership by removing Kamran Ghulam for 54, caught by Rabada. He completed his five-wicket haul by dismissing Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Ali Agha.
The series continues with the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, beginning January 3.
