Pakistan openers Babar Azam and Shan Masood formed a 205-run partnership to keep the second Test against South Africa alive.

The visitors were forced to play on at Newlands after being bowled out for 194 on the third day.

In response to South Africa’s first innings total of 615, Masood (102 not out) surpassed three figures towards the end of the day, while Azam was dismissed for 81 before being narrowly finished off by Marco Jansen.

Pakistan began the day at 64-3, trailing South Africa by 314 runs, with the hosts yet to bat for the second time.

Former Test captain Azam made 58 before being dismissed by Kwena Maphaka to end his 98-year partnership with wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan (46).

Azam’s departure sparked a flurry of Pakistani wickets, with the visitors losing their last seven for 76 runs.

Kagiso Rabada took three wickets with spinners Keshav Maharaj and Maphaka claiming two each.

With Pakistan trailing by a massive 421 runs, South Africa forced follow-on only to see Masood and Azam record Pakistan’s highest opening wicket partnership since December 2022.

The tourists still face a daunting task: they need another 208 runs to draw level with South Africa with two days of play remaining.

The Proteas are playing their final Test match before facing Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June.

Australia secured its place in the final on Sunday, winning the final Test against India in Sydney to secure a 3-1 series win.