WATCH: Babar Azam confronts South African bowler Wiaan Mulder

Babar Azam confronts Wiaan Mulder after the South African bowler’s aggressive action during Day 3 of Cape Town Test.

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A tense moment unfolded between Pakistan's top order batsman, Babar Azam, and South African bowler, Wiaan Mulder, during the Pakistan-South Africa match at Newlands Stadium in Cape Town,

After a frustrating follow-on and no wickets taken during the second innings, Mulder threw a ball at Babar Azam, who was far away from the stumps.

This move clearly angered Babar, who responded by locking eyes with Mulder, signaling his displeasure.

Babar had already enjoyed the day with two half-centuries, contributing significantly to Pakistan's innings.

The exchange escalated as Babar confronted Mulder directly, leading to an intense face-off.

The incident marked a rare moment of tension in a cricket match, highlighting both the competitive nature of the game and Babar Azam’s composed but firm response under pressure.

On the other hand, Pakistan Captain Shan Masood and Babar Azam set a new record for the highest opening partnership in Test history while following on, with a remarkable 205-run stand on Day 3 of the second Test against South Africa in Cape Town.

This partnership, which eclipsed previous records, provided Pakistan a much-needed fightback after being bowled out for just 194 in their first innings. Their 205-run stand not only defied the pressure of the follow-on but also gave the visiting side a glimmer of hope to level the series.

Shan’s remarkable century, his sixth in Test cricket, and Babar’s 81 runs, which included 10 boundaries, were instrumental in keeping South Africa on the back foot. The pair's display of determination and composure on a pitch now easing for batting left the hosts helpless.

Babar, who was well on his way to scoring a long-awaited Test hundred, was dismissed at gully, but not before creating history. His partnership with Shan marked the highest-ever opening stand in a follow-on innings in Test cricket, setting a new world record.

Additionally, the pair’s stand surpassed the previous record for the highest opening partnership between Pakistan and South Africa in Tests, which stood at 133 runs by Yasir Hameed and Younis Khan in the 2006-07 season.

The historic partnership has not only rewritten the record books but also offered Pakistan a potential lifeline as they continue their fightback in a bid to level the series.