NEW DELHI: Centurion witnessed history on Friday as South Africa’s Corbin Bosch, batting at No. 9, delivered an extraordinary unbeaten 81 against Pakistan in the first Test.
His innings secured him a spot among the top-scoring debutants in this unconventional batting position, a list that includes notable cricketers such as India’s Balwinder Sandhu and Sri Lanka’s Milan Rathnayake.
READ ALSO: ‘3 years ago’: Corbin Bosch earns R Ashwin’s admiration with heroics against Pakistan
Bosch’s knock has surpassed them all, making him the highest scorer on Test debut from No. 9.
Highest scores from No.9 on Test debut
- 81* – Corbin Bosch (SA) vs PAK, Centurion, 2024
- 72 – Milan Rathnayake (SL) vs ENG, Old Trafford, 2024
- 71 – Balwinder Sandhu (IND) vs PAK, Hyderabad (Sind), 1983
- 65 – Darren Gough (ENG) vs NZ, Old Trafford, 1994
- 59 – Monde Zondeki (SA) vs ENG, Headingley, 2003
The Proteas, reeling at 213/8, seemed destined for a subpar total before Bosch counterattacked.
Exhibiting remarkable composure and aggression, he carved out boundaries and rotated the strike effectively, turning the tide for South Africa.
His unbeaten 81 came off just 93 deliveries, peppered with 15 fours, propelling the hosts to a respectable first-innings score of 301 all out.
Bosch’s innings bolstered the scoreboard, deflating Pakistan’s momentum after a strong showing by their pacers Naseem Shah (3/75) and Aamer Jamal (3/92).
Bosch’s contributions didn’t stop with the bat. He had already impressed in the bowling department, taking crucial wickets during Pakistan’s first innings, including those of Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel, finishing with figures of 4/63.
