South Africa, having secured their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, will look to complete a series sweep as they face Pakistan in the second Test starting Friday, January 3, at Newlands, Cape Town.
The Proteas claimed a narrow two-wicket win in the first Test at Centurion, thanks to a game-changing 51-run ninth-wicket partnership between Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. Rabada and Jansen added 32 runs off 31 balls on Day 4 to secure the victory.
Aiden Markram was named Player of the Match for his consistent knocks, while debutant Corbin Bosch contributed with both bat and ball to build a crucial first-innings lead. Dane Paterson’s five-wicket haul was another highlight.
For Pakistan, Mohammad Abbas impressed with six second-innings wickets, but their top order struggled. South Africa is likely to field the same XI, while Pakistan may consider changes as they aim to level the series.
Pitch Report for SA vs PAK 1st Test
The pitch at SuperSport Park is known for being favorable to bowlers in red-ball cricket. Early visuals reveal a lush green surface, as Centurion is renowned for providing one of the most pace-friendly tracks in Test cricket. Recent heavy rains in Centurion, just two days before Boxing Day, have added moisture, and rain is also predicted for Day 3 of the match.
SuperSport Park Stats
| Total Matches | 19 |
| Matches Won Batting First | 9 |
| Matches Won Bowling First | 9 |
| Average 1st Innings Score | 176 |
| Average 2nd Innings Score | 161 |
| Highest Total Recorded | 259/4 (18.5 Overs) by RSA vs WI |
| Lowest Total Recorded | 100/10 (12.2 Overs) by RSA vs PAK |
| Highest Score Chased | 259/4 (18.5 Overs) by RSA vs WI |
| Lowest Score Defended | 126/5 (10 Overs) by RSA vs SL |
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