There is a point in the sci-fi classic, The Matrix, when the newly recruited hero, Neo, is in the subway under pursuit from the seemingly unstoppable villain, Agent Smith.

Our hero, who has struggled for belief until now, rather than take the logical course of action and run, stands his ground in the face of impossible odds. His mentor Morpheus, who is observing from afar, comes to a realisation about Neo and gasps, “He is beginning to believe.”

Today, in a thrilling game against South Africa, it seems Pakistan, too, stood their ground and found some self-belief. The stars, of course, were the fast bowlers.

Know more: Seamers, Sarfraz inspire as rampant Pakistan sink South Africa