In a thrilling conclusion to the first Test match at SuperSport Park in Centurion, South Africa edged past Pakistan by two wickets, securing their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Match Summary:
- Venue: SuperSport Park, Centurion
- Result: South Africa won by 2 wickets
- Series Status: South Africa leads 1-0 in the two-match series
Match Results: Pakistan vs South Africa 1st Test
Detail | Pakistan | South Africa |
---|---|---|
1st Innings Score | 215 | 245 |
2nd Innings Score | 178 | 148/8 (Target: 148) |
Top Scorer (1st Innings) | Babar Azam (67) | Aiden Markram (82) |
Top Scorer (2nd Innings) | Shan Masood (42) | Kagiso Rabada (31*) |
Best Bowler (1st Innings) | Shaheen Afridi (4/60) | Keshav Maharaj (5/47) |
Best Bowler (2nd Innings) | Mohammad Abbas (6/34) | Kagiso Rabada (3/22) |
Result | South Africa won by 2 wickets |
Key Highlights:
- Pakistan’s Bowling Prowess: Mohammad Abbas delivered a remarkable performance, claiming six wickets and bringing Pakistan tantalizingly close to an upset victory. Reuters
- South Africa’s Resilient Chase: Chasing a target of 148, South Africa found themselves in a precarious position at 99 for 8. However, a crucial unbeaten partnership of 51 runs between Kagiso Rabada (31*) and Marco Jansen (16*) guided the hosts to victory. NDTV Sports
- WTC Final Qualification: This victory ensures South Africa’s qualification for their maiden appearance in the World Test Championship final, scheduled for June at Lord’s. ESPN Cricinfo
Captains’ Remarks:
- Temba Bavuma (South Africa): Praised his team’s resilience and the lower-order contribution, emphasizing the significance of the win in securing a spot in the WTC final.
- Shan Masood (Pakistan): Expressed disappointment over the narrow loss but lauded his bowlers, particularly Mohammad Abbas, for their exceptional efforts.
Looking Ahead:
The second and final Test of the series is set to commence on Friday, January 3, 2025, at Newlands in Cape Town. Pakistan will aim to level the series, while South Africa will look to continue their winning momentum ahead of the WTC final.
Also Read: New Zealand’s Historic 3-0 Test Series Whitewash Against India