Younis, Shafiq hit centuries as Pakistan fight back

Cape Town, Feb 14 (AFP) Centuries by Younis Khan and Asad Shafiq transformed Pakistan's fortunes on the first day of the second Test against South Africa at Newlands on Thursday. Pakistan were 253 for five at stumps, having been reeling at 33 for four after being sent in. Younis was caught behind off Vernon Philander 13 balls before the close for 111, while Shafiq was unbeaten, also on 111. The pair put on 219, a record partnership for any wicket by Pakistan against South Africa. It was a remarkable turnaround after the South African fast bowlers scythed through their top order early in the day. Pakistan seemed in danger of another humiliation following their dismissal for a record low of 49 on the way to a 211-run defeat in the first Test in Johannesburg. Graeme Smith's decision to bowl was prompted by cloudy weather, which followed early morning rain. It seemed fully justified as Morne Morkel took two wickets and Philander and Dale Steyn claimed one each, with none of the batsmen looking comfortable. Younis, Pakistan's most experienced batsman, had to survive some challenging deliveries from Steyn at the start of his innings, while Shafiq followed a fighting half-century in the second innings in Johannesburg with an innings which grew in quality the longer it progressed. It was slow going at times, with Younis and Shafiq adding only 14 runs in the first 13 overs after lunch. The 50 partnership was posted off 151 balls, but their second 50 was scored off 88 deliveries and the pair scored freely in the afternoon before the second new ball was due. More (AFP) AT AT 02142233 NNNN