South Africa has booked its place in the World Test Championship final for the first time, following a nail-biting victory over Pakistan on day four of the
SA Proteas bag test final against Pakistan. Image source: espncricinfo
(The Post News)- South Africa has booked its place in the World Test Championship final for the first time, following a nail-biting victory over Pakistan on day four of the Centurion Test. The match, filled with twists and turns, showcased the drama and unpredictability of Test cricket.
The Proteas, needing just 148 runs to win, found themselves in deep trouble after a middle-order collapse left them teetering at 99-8. With the game slipping away, Kagiso Rabada, typically known for his bowling, stepped up with the bat. His unbeaten 31 off 26 balls, combined with Marco Jansen’s calm 16 not out, forged a crucial 51-run partnership to secure a two-wicket win.
This victory kept South Africa at the top of the Test Championship standings and guaranteed their place in the final at Lord’s in June, where they will face either Australia or India.
South Africa started the day at 27-3, needing 121 runs with plenty of time but under immense pressure. Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram initially steadied the ship, but Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas, returning to Test cricket after three years, wreaked havoc with his precision.
Abbas claimed six wickets, including a spell where South Africa lost three wickets in four balls, leaving the home side in disarray.
Bavuma’s dismissal for 40 was particularly contentious, as replays suggested the ball may have only grazed his pocket rather than his bat. Despite this setback, Rabada’s bold stroke play and Jansen’s resilience turned the tide.
As Jansen struck the winning runs, the stands erupted with joy, marking a triumphant moment for the team and their fans. Captain Bavuma described the match as a “rollercoaster,” adding, “We did it the hard way but are glad we got the result.”
South Africa’s path to the final has been anything but straightforward. Despite early struggles, including a series loss to New Zealand, the team bounced back with six consecutive wins, proving their mettle against various opponents.
This achievement is significant, especially for a team often overshadowed by cricket powerhouses like India, Australia, and England. Bavuma credited the team’s perseverance, stating, “We haven’t been super dominant, but we’ve always found a way.”
As South Africa prepares for their historic final, this victory serves as a testament to their grit and determination, reminding fans why Test cricket remains the pinnacle of the sport.
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