South Africa's thrilling 2-0 Test series victory over Pakistan elevates them to the top spot.©(@MohmmadAsif2000)
South Africa concluded a dominant series against Pakistan with a 2-0 victory, cementing their position atop the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. The Proteas showcased exceptional form in the second Test in Cape Town, wrapping up the match on the fourth day and preparing themselves for the WTC final against Australia in June.
Match Highlights: South Africa vs Pakistan, 2nd Test
The second Test saw South Africa assert dominance from the outset. A massive first-innings total of 615 set the tone, with opener Ryan Rickelton delivering an exceptional 259 runs. Trailing by 421, Pakistan managed a spirited second-innings fightback but ultimately couldn’t prevent the inevitable.
| Innings | Total Runs | Top Performers |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa 1st Innings | 615 all out | Ryan Rickelton (259), David Bedingham (88) |
| Pakistan 1st Innings | 194 all out | Shan Masood (145), Muhammad Rizwan (41) |
| Pakistan 2nd Innings | 479 all out | Shan Masood (145), Babar Azam (81), Salman Agha (48) |
| South Africa 2nd Innings | 58-0 (chased) | David Bedingham (44*) |
Key Performances
Ryan Rickelton’s Record-Breaking 259:
The opener played a sensational knock, anchoring South Africa’s innings and setting the platform for their commanding total. Rickelton’s innings was the backbone of South Africa’s dominance.
Shan Masood’s Resilience:
Masood’s heroic 145 in Pakistan’s second innings added respectability to the visitors’ effort. Alongside contributions from Babar Azam and the lower order, Pakistan reached parity before setting a modest target of 58 for South Africa.
Rabada and Maharaj Lead with the Ball:
South African bowlers Kagiso Rabada (6 wickets across both innings) and Keshav Maharaj (4 wickets) kept Pakistan in check, ensuring South Africa remained in control throughout the match.
South Africa’s Winning Run in Test Cricket
The Proteas have been on a remarkable run in red-ball cricket since their last series loss to Australia in January 2023. They have since beaten notable opponents, maintaining an unbeaten streak extending into the World Test Championship final.
| Opponent | Venue | Series Result |
|---|---|---|
| West Indies | Home | W 2-0 |
| India | Home | D 1-1 |
| New Zealand | Away | L 0-2 |
| Bangladesh | Away | W 2-0 |
| Sri Lanka | Home | W 2-0 |
| Pakistan | Home | W 2-0 |
World Test Championship Final Awaits
South Africa’s victory over Pakistan solidified their position in the WTC standings. With confidence and momentum, they head into the final against Australia, scheduled for June 11–15 at Lord’s.
| Position | Team | Points | % Points Earned |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 100 | 69.44% |
| 2 | Australia | 130 | 63.73% |
| 3 | India | 114 | 50.00% |
| 4 | New Zealand | 81 | 48.21% |
| 5 | Sri Lanka | 60 | 45.45% |
| 6 | England | 114 | 43.18% |
| 7 | Bangladesh | 45 | 31.25% |
| 8 | Pakistan | 40 | 27.78% |
| 9 | West Indies | 32 | 24.24% |
Criticism and Defense of South Africa’s Qualification
Former England captain Michael Vaughan recently questioned South Africa’s qualification, suggesting they had reached the final by defeating weaker opponents. However, Proteas coach Shukri Conrad dismissed these remarks, highlighting victories over sides like New Zealand and Sri Lanka, both of whom have achieved significant Test success.
“One of the nobodies we beat won a Test match in Australia,” said Conrad. “New Zealand beat India three-nil in India. These are not nobodies.”
Pakistan’s Next Series
Pakistan will look to regroup as they host the West Indies for a two-Test string beginning on January 17. With an eye on improving their WTC standings, the series will be crucial for rebuilding confidence after a challenging tour in South Africa.
Also Read: Australia Wins Fifth Test to Seal Series 3-1 & WTC Final Spot
South Africa’s emphatic win against Pakistan reaffirms their dominance in Test cricket. With the World Test Championship final looming, the Proteas are set to carry their form and determination to Lord’s, aiming to claim the ultimate prize in red-ball cricket.
