Kagiso Rabada secures South Africa’s Test Championship Final spot.©(@aslidev_ )
South Africa clinched a nerve-wracking two-wicket win against Pakistan on the fourth day of the first Test in Centurion, ensuring their place in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s in June. The dramatic victory highlighted South Africa’s resilience as they chased 148 runs on a challenging pitch to secure their maiden entry into the championship final.
A Thrilling Finale to a Rollercoaster Match
The Proteas, who started the day at 27-3, faced immense pressure as Pakistan seamer Mohammad Abbas ran riot with a spectacular spell, claiming figures of 6-54. South Africa’s chase seemed on track until they stumbled from 96-4 to a precarious 99-8, losing three wickets in just four balls.
Enter Kagiso Rabada, batting at number 10. Rabada’s attacking 31 not out from just 26 deliveries turned the game on its head. Partnering with Marco Jansen, who contributed a vital 16 not out, Rabada added an unbroken 51-run stand to steer South Africa to a memorable victory.
Jansen sealed the win with a boundary, sparking jubilant celebrations on the field and among fans in the stands. Captain Temba Bavuma described the victory as “an emotional rollercoaster” and lauded the team’s grit. “It was a good advert for Test cricket,” said Bavuma. “We did it the hard way, but we’re glad to get the result.”
Key Moments of the Day
South Africa began the day with hopes of consolidating their overnight position. Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram settled initial nerves, but Abbas dismissed Markram for 37 to spark a dramatic collapse.
Abbas’s precision with line and length was unmatched as he bowled throughout the day, troubling the South African batters on the lively Centurion pitch. Bavuma’s dismissal for 40, following a contentious caught-behind decision that he chose not to review, further dented South Africa’s chances.
Pakistan seized control when Abbas removed David Bedingham and Corbin Bosch in quick succession, leaving South Africa on the brink of defeat. However, the lower-order heroics of Rabada and Jansen turned the tide.
Ra bada’s Decisive Knock
Rabada’s fearless approach under pressure shifted momentum back to South Africa. The left-hander struck four boundaries after lunch, confidently countering Pakistan’s bowlers. His partnership with Jansen was a masterclass in composure and aggression, showcasing South Africa’s batting lineup depth.
Reflecting on the tense situation at lunch, Bavuma said, “There wasn’t much conversation. I was sulking in the toilet. I came out when we needed about 15 runs. It was tough, but we backed our lower order.”
South Africa’s Road to Lord’s
This victory cements South Africa’s place at the World Test Championship plain, with seven wins from 11 matches. After a challenging start to the championship cycle, including a series loss in New Zealand, South Africa bounced back with six consecutive victories. Their fixtures included a series against the West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, with most matches played in favorable home conditions.
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Captain Bavuma acknowledged the significance of the achievement: “It’s a big moment for the team and the coach. We weren’t given much chance, but we’ve overcome a lot. We haven’t always been dominant, but we’ve found ways to win.”
A Milestone for Test Cricket
This achievement celebrates an important milestone for South Africa. It represents the first time the Proteas have reached the World Test Championship final. The team will now prepare to face Australia or India at Lord’s in June, aiming to continue their impressive form.
South Africa’s triumph in Centurion is a testament to the enduring appeal of Test cricket, offering a thrilling reminder of the format’s unpredictability and excitement.
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