Proteas paceman Anrich Nortje says the bowlers did a good job at restricting Pakistan to 272 and is confident the batsmen can build a lead for the visitors.

Nortje was the pick of the South African bowlers by claiming a five-wicket haul that pinned Pakistan in Rawalpindi on Friday.

The Proteas attack did well to capitalise on the opportunities they were given, compared to the first Test where Pakistan took the game away with long and frustrating partnerships.

‘I do think we bowled well and controlled the rate well. There were one or two opportunities where chances didn’t went our way. The major thing is controlling the aggression and controlling the our line and lengths. Besides that there is not a lot we can do extra,’ Nortje told reporters on Friday.

‘I do think we have restricted them to a good total. It’s definitely manageable for us to exceed their score. The previous came they had a lot of partnerships. Our energy and line and lengths are controllable. When we do get a sniff to try and make an impact. We bowled really well, even if we didn’t get the wickets, to control the rate.’

READ: Shorter spells made the difference – Nortje

The Proteas reached stumps at the end of the day on 106-4 after losing the top order fairly cheaply once again.

Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma will resume the innings on Saturday morning and Nortje is full of confidence that the Proteas will be able to pass the Pakistan total of 272.

‘It was unfortunate that we lost a few wickets but I have full confidence that will come tomorrow and have a good long bat. All the preparation has been done so hopefully we can just get one or two guys in and just slowly but surely build a partnership to get the momentum on our side. I have full confidence in the batting unit,’ he added.