South Africa Becomes First Team to Qualify for WTC Final 2025
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South Africa secured their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final after defeating Pakistan in a thrilling first Test at SuperSport Park, Centurion, on Sunday, December 29.
The Proteas chased down a target of 148 runs in the fourth innings, thanks to a calm and unbeaten partnership of 51 runs between Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen for the ninth wicket.
South Africa’s Nervy Chase
Pakistan were bowled out for 237 runs on Day 3, setting South Africa a modest-looking target of 148. However, the chase turned out to be anything but easy. By the end of Day 3, the Proteas were struggling at 27/3, and the visitors appeared to have the upper hand.
On the final day, Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma resumed the innings, needing 121 runs to win. The pair played cautiously during the first hour, but things soon spiraled out of control.
Mohammad Abbas bowled an incredible spell, picking up four wickets in the morning session and putting South Africa in deep trouble. Markram was bowled by a delivery that stayed low, while Bavuma was controversially given out caught behind, despite no clear evidence from Ultra-edge.
South Africa’s middle order collapsed, with Kyle Verreynne, David Bedingham, and Corbin Bosch all departing quickly. At 99/8, Pakistan seemed to be heading for a famous victory.
Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen Seal the Win
Despite the pressure, Rabada and Jansen stood firm. They batted patiently, taking South Africa closer to the target run by run. Their unbeaten 51-run stand turned the game around and led the hosts to victory in the second session.
Although Abbas finished with impressive figures of 6/64, his efforts went in vain as South Africa claimed a remarkable win. With this victory, the Proteas became the first team to book their place in the WTC 2025 final at Lord’s.
Read Original Content: South Africa Becomes First Team to Qualify for WTC Final 2025
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