A responsible half century from Misbah Ul Haq and an equally responsible knock by Azhar Ali helped Pakistan draw the second Test against South Africa at Abu Dhabi. The two Test series ended 0-0. Pakistan needed its middle order to hold strong after a mini collapse in the top of the order. Misbah, the captain, in the company of Azhar Ali, battled out for three hours to save the game. 
Earlier, South Africa batted for just six overs in the morning and declared at 203/5, setting Pakistan a target of 354 runs. The target was just a number and it was obvious that Pakistan will bat only to save the Test. It was also a test for the South African bowlers to see if they can pick 20 wickets on a lifeless track. 
They fell short once again, having failed to dismiss Pakistan in the second innings of the previous Test as well. However, they did have patches have good spells here and there, picking three wickets after lunch. But Misbah once again was there to deny the South Africans a victory under his captaincy.
Pakistan lost three wickets at the score of 66. They lost both the well set openers and then Paul Harris dismissed Younis Khan with a ball that straightened to wrap him on the pads. It was crucial wicket and at that point of time it looked as if South Africa were going to do what they failed to do in Dubai. Younis Khan had denied them at that time with an excellent century.
But Pakistan had Azhar Ali to accompany their captain. He had played a very sensible knock in the previous game to take Pakistan close to safety and once again he showed his sensibility and played a solid game. He showed that his only desire was to stay at the crease and curbed all his natural instincts. It must have been a refreshing sight for the Pakistan fans to finally see someone adapt to the Test game instead of playing attacking shots irrespective of the situation.
South Africa must be slightly worried that they have not been able to pick up twenty wickets, especially ahead of a tough series against India.