South Africa secured their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) final spot with a dramatic two-wicket victory over Pakistan in the first Test in Centurion on Sunday. The Proteas now stand unchallenged at the top of the WTC standings, ensuring a place in next year’s summit clash at Lord’s.
Dominant WTC Cycle Performance
South Africa’s journey in the WTC cycle has been impressive. After starting with a drawn home series against India and a clean sweep loss to New Zealand, they rebounded strongly. Away victories against West Indies and Bangladesh, followed by dominant performances at home, helped them climb the standings. The Temba Bavuma-led side has played 11 Tests in this cycle, achieving seven wins and a 66.67-point percentage.
The Proteas cemented their spot in the final after defeating Pakistan and overtaking rivals Australia, India, and Sri Lanka. Their position remains secure unless slow-over rate penalties affect their points.
Thrilling Centurion Test Win
South Africa elected to field in the Centurion Test. Dane Paterson (5-61) and debutant Corbin Bosch (4-63) dismantled Pakistan’s batting on Day 1, giving the hosts a 90-run first-innings lead. Despite Babar Azam’s 50 and Saud Shakeel’s gritty 84 in Pakistan’s second innings, Marco Jansen’s 6-52 restricted them to 237.
Chasing 148, South Africa faced a collapse at 99/8 as Mohammad Abbas claimed six wickets. However, Kagiso Rabada (31*) and Marco Jansen (16*) staged a remarkable ninth-wicket stand, securing the win and South Africa’s spot in the WTC final.
With this victory, South Africa underline their dominance in the ongoing WTC cycle, marking a significant achievement in their Test cricket history.
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