One final match before the World Test Championship (WTC), and South Africa wins it dominantly as they beat Pakistan at their home by 10 wickets in Cape Town on Monday. This win is a wake-up call for Australia, as they will be facing the same team in the World Test Championship final on 11th June 2025 at the Lords England. Both teams look very dominant and prepared for the epic clash at one side. Australia has defeated India 3-1 in the Border Gavaskar Trophy at their home, while South Africa has defeated Pakistan 2-0 on their soil on Monday. On the final day of the second Test, South Africa comfortably chased down the modest target of 58 runs without losing a wicket. David Bedingham smashed a quick-fire 44 off 30 balls, while Aiden Markram contributed a steady 14, as the hosts wrapped up the match in just over 7 overs.
Pakistan’s fight in Second Innings
Starting the day at 417/6, Pakistan aimed to extend their lead. However, South Africa’s bowlers quickly wrapped up the tail, dismissing the visitors for 478. Shan Masood played a heroic knock of 145, anchoring the innings, while Babar Azam (81) and Salman Agha (48) provided crucial support. Kagiso Rabada and Keshav Maharaj claimed three wickets each, applying constant pressure on the Pakistani batters.
South Africa’s all-round domination
The match was a show of South Africa’s dominance. Their first-innings total of 615, led by Ryan Rickelton’s sensational 259 and captain Temba Bavuma’s 106, set the tone. Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen added quick runs, helping the hosts post a daunting score. Pakistan struggled in their reply, folding for 194 in their first innings with Rabada and Maharaj dismantling their batting line-up.
Pakistan’s falls short
Forced to follow on, Pakistan displayed more resilience in their second innings. Shan Masood’s determined century and Agha Salman’s partnerships with the lower order gave the visitors hope. Despite their spirited effort, the deficit proved too large to overcome.
Big Performances
- Ryan Rickelton (SA): His career-best 259 in the first inning set the foundation for South Africa’s win.
- Shan Masood (PAK): Fought valiantly with a superb 145 under immense pressure in the second innings.
- Kagiso Rabada (SA): Claimed six wickets across both innings, spearheading South Africa’s bowling attack.
- Keshav Maharaj (SA): Controlled the middle overs, taking crucial wickets in both innings.
South Africa > Pakistan
South Africa outplayed Pakistan in all departments, ensuring a 2-0 series sweep. With this win, they reinforced their dominance at home and climbed the World Test Championship rankings. Pakistan, despite showing glimpses of brilliance, struggled to match the consistency of the Proteas. This victory shows South Africa’s preparation in Test cricket and sets them up strongly for the World Test Championship finals.
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