Special Correspondent
South African left-hander Tony de Zorzi credited patience, partnerships, and meticulous preparation for his defiant century against Pakistan on a turning pitch at the Gaddafi Stadium, calling it one of the most meaningful innings of his career.
Speaking at the post-day press conference on Day 3 of the first Test, de Zorzi reflected on his innings of 104 — a knock that kept South Africa in the contest despite the constant threat of Pakistan’s spinners and an unpredictable surface.
“The first 30 balls were a grind,” de Zorzi admitted with a smile. “I was just trying to hang in there, hoping things would turn. Batting with Rickleton helped — he was superb, and that took some pressure off me. My son told me to play straight. I told him I’m trying.”
‘One of my favorite centuries’
De Zorzi said the hundred carried special value, coming in challenging conditions and after returning from injury.
“This one’s probably one of my favorite centuries,” he said. “The team was in trouble, I was coming back from injury, and mentally it was a battle. I’m just happy I could contribute.”
His innings came at a crucial stage of the match, as South Africa were trailing Pakistan’s first-innings total of 378 and facing sharp turn and uneven bounce.
Respect for Pakistan’s batting and spin challenge
The 28-year-old also lauded Pakistan’s top order — particularly Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam, and Salman Ali Agha — for their diverse methods of tackling spin.
“There’s no one secret to batting on these surfaces. Everyone has their own way. You just have to trust your method,” he noted.
De Zorzi said South Africa’s preparation for subcontinental conditions had been thorough and purposeful.
“This is what we expected and prepared for. Our team selection and game plans reflected that. We’ve adapted well so far,” he said, adding that the conditions demanded both patience and courage.
‘Partnerships are gold on wickets like this’
With South Africa chasing 277 and finishing Day 3 at 51 for 2, de Zorzi emphasized the importance of building partnerships to neutralize Pakistan’s spin threat.
“On a wicket like this, partnerships are gold. It’s tough for new batters to settle, so Rick and I just try to stay present and take it one ball at a time,” he said.
He spoke highly of his chemistry with fellow left-hander Ryan Rickleton, who also struck a fluent 71 in the first innings.
“We bat differently but complement each other well. We remind each other of our strengths and keep each other focused,” de Zorzi explained.
‘Just grateful to contribute again’
Returning from injury and having missed the WTC final earlier in the year, de Zorzi said his focus was purely on contributing to the team’s cause.
“There wasn’t pressure — just desperation to get back. I’m grateful to be part of this team and to contribute.”
As South Africa look to chase down a challenging target on a deteriorating Lahore surface, de Zorzi’s century — built on composure, clarity, and companionship — has provided the visitors a fighting chance in a Test that remains finely balanced.
