Shamar Joseph made a memorable impact in his first home Test, taking a remarkable five-wicket haul as West Indies bowled out South Africa for 160 on a dramatic opening day of the second and final Test. However, South Africa quickly struck back, with Wiaan Mulder's four-wicket burst leaving the hosts struggling at 97 for seven by the close.

Joseph, who was left out of the rain-affected first Test in Trinidad, returned with a vengeance, capturing figures of 5 for 33. His performance was reminiscent of his stunning debut series in Australia, where he took seven wickets in Brisbane, securing the West Indies' first Test win in Australia in 27 years. On this occasion, Joseph’s consistent pace and full-length deliveries proved too much for the South African batsmen in conditions surprisingly favorable to the fast bowlers. His efforts were supported by Jayden Seales, who chipped in with 3 for 45.

Despite Joseph’s heroics, South Africa's tail wagged, with Dane Piedt (38 not out) and Nandre Burger (23) adding a crucial 63 runs for the last wicket, lifting their side past the hundred-run mark. Both players were picked primarily for their bowling, but their contributions with the bat proved vital.

In response, the West Indies top-order crumbled under pressure from the South African bowlers. Burger made the initial breakthrough by dismissing Mikyle Louis, but it was Mulder who stole the show with figures of 4 for 18. Mulder, who admitted he wasn't at his best, nevertheless found success by following Joseph’s strategy, utilizing movement through the air and off the seam to dismantle the West Indies lineup.

Jason Holder, unbeaten on 33, fought to keep the innings together, but with the fall of Gudakesh Motie in the last over of the day to Keshav Maharaj, Holder faces the daunting task of rallying the tail on the second morning to minimize the deficit. The match remains finely poised, with both sides looking to gain the upper hand on what promises to be another gripping day of Test cricket.