Fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen turned unlikely batting heroes on Sunday in first test of Pakistan vs South Africa test series. Their efforts secured South Africa’s dramatic two-wicket win over Pakistan at Centurion. With this victory, South Africa booked their place in next year’s World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Rabada smashed an unbeaten 31, while Jansen added 16 runs. Together, they formed a crucial 51-run partnership off just 50 balls. This late-game heroics denied Pakistan a sensational comeback victory. Earlier, Mohammed Abbas delivered a phenomenal bowling performance, claiming six wickets and wreaking havoc in South Africa’s innings.
Pakistan vs South Africa Test Series
The match ended in thrilling fashion, resembling a Twenty20 game. South Africa’s tailenders stepped up after the team stumbled badly. Rabada, ranked the second-best Test bowler globally, became the unlikely hero. Jansen sealed the win with a classy drive to the boundary.
Earlier in the day, Abbas almost led Pakistan to an improbable win. His relentless 13-over spell before lunch secured four wickets. South Africa’s chase, which once appeared comfortable, turned into a dramatic collapse. Abbas finished with impressive figures of 6-54 off 19.3 overs.
South Africa’s batting line crumbled unexpectedly. With 50 runs needed and six wickets in hand, the hosts collapsed from 96-4 to 99-8. Captain Temba Bavuma, who scored a steady 40, walked off mistakenly, believing he had edged a delivery. However, replays later showed the ball only grazed his pocket.
Abbas also dismissed Aiden Markram, David Bedingham, and Corbin Bosch, putting Pakistan on the brink of victory. Yet, Rabada and Jansen remained calm under pressure. Their partnership not only secured the win but also showcased their composure.
Road to World Test Championship Final
With this victory, South Africa extended their winning streak to six Tests. The streak began in the West Indies and continued with series wins against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
South Africa now leads the WTC standings. The team will host Pakistan in the second Test at Newlands on Friday, aiming to maintain their momentum. The WTC final will take place from June 11-15 at Lord’s.
