South Africa Secures First-Ever World Test Championship Final Spot with Exciting Victory Against Pakistan
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Centurion, Dec 29 (NationPress) South Africa has successfully secured their spot in the World Test Championship final following a nail-biting two-wicket triumph over Pakistan during the first Test in Centurion on Sunday.
Prior to the commencement of the Boxing Day Test in Centurion, South Africa was leading the standings, paving the way for their participation in next year's final at Lord's. A victory against Pakistan guaranteed their finish among the top two teams, thus booking their place in the inaugural WTC final.
The Proteas had already established themselves at the top of the WTC rankings after completing a 2-0 series victory against Sri Lanka at home. With 11 Tests played in this ongoing cycle, South Africa boasts seven wins and a commendable 66.67 point percentage.
After beginning this cycle with a drawn series at home against India, followed by a clean sweep against New Zealand, the Proteas made a strong recovery with impressive away victories against West Indies and Bangladesh, in addition to their dominant performances at home.
The team, led by Temba Bavuma, outperformed Australia, India, and Sri Lanka—all of whom were also in contention—to become the first team to secure a place in the final, pending any deductions due to slow-over rate infractions.
In the Test match against Pakistan in Centurion, South Africa opted to field first. Fast bowlers Dane Paterson (5-61) and debutant Corbin Bosch (4-63) dismantled the visitors on the first day. Despite a valiant effort from Pakistan, Aiden Markram and Corbin Bosch played crucial roles in helping the Proteas achieve a vital 90-run lead in the first innings.
Pakistan's second innings featured resilient contributions from Babar Azam (50) and Saud Shakeel (84), but Marco Jansen's 6-52 limited them to 237 runs. Chasing a target of 148, South Africa faced a daunting situation at 99/8, with Mohammad Abbas claiming six wickets.
However, Kagiso Rabada (31 not out) and Marco Jansen (16 not out) displayed composure, contributing crucial runs in a tense ninth-wicket partnership that led the Proteas to a memorable victory.
