South Africa Creates History, Secures Maiden WTC Final Spot With Thrilling Win Over Pakistan, India-Australia To Fight For Second Spot

South Africa clinched their first-ever World Test Championship final berth with a thrilling two-wicket win over Pakistan, thanks to Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen's heroic 51-run partnership.

Image Source: X/ICC

SA vs PAK: South Africa made history by qualifying for their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) final after a nail-biting two-wicket victory over Pakistan at Centurion on Sunday. In a low-scoring thriller, the Proteas chased down a modest target of 148 runs, overcoming a dramatic collapse that saw them reduced to 99/8.

The game was marked by exceptional bowling performances, particularly from Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas. Delivering a masterclass in seam bowling, Abbas dismantled South Africa’s middle and lower order with an unrelenting spell of 13 overs, leaving the hosts teetering on the brink of defeat.

However, South Africa’s unlikely heroes, Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, rose to the occasion. The duo put together a gutsy unbeaten 51-run partnership for the ninth wicket, steering their team to victory and sealing their place in the WTC final.

Mohammad Abbas's Exceptional Comeback In Vain

Pakistan’s hopes were pinned on Mohammad Abbas, whose precision and control were on full display. His relentless efforts yielded crucial breakthroughs, as South Africa’s batting lineup crumbled under pressure. Abbas’s spell not only kept Pakistan in the game but also brought them tantalizingly close to pulling off an upset.

Rabada and Jansen’s Heroics

At 99/8, the Proteas seemed destined for defeat, but Rabada and Jansen had other plans. Rabada, known more for his prowess with the ball, displayed incredible resilience and composure under immense pressure. Jansen, with his calm approach, complemented Rabada’s determination, together forging a partnership that will go down as one of South Africa’s finest in Test cricket.

Jansen’s winning boundary to third man not only brought up the crucial 50-run partnership but also sealed an unforgettable victory. The celebrations in the South African camp reflected the magnitude of the achievement, as players embraced and roared in triumph.

All Eyes On India vs Australia: Who Will Qualify For The Finals

With South Africa securing their spot, the attention now shifts to the ongoing series between India and Australia. The two cricketing giants are locked in a battle for the second and final berth in the WTC final.

A Momentous Milestone for South Africa

With this historic win, South Africa will now turn their focus to the WTC final, where they will aim to crown their remarkable journey with the ultimate prize in Test cricket. For Pakistan, the defeat serves as a reminder of their potential and the fine margins that define the game at the highest level.