Clinical South Africa clinches a place in the WTC Final after an exhilarating 10-wicket win. Explore the match details and standout performances from this exciting game.
Introduction
South Africa dominated the Test cricket and easily swept out Pakistan at Newlands, winning the match by ten wickets and ensuring qualification for the World Test Championship final. It was the seventh Test in a row that South Africa have won; a testament to their relentless form and ability to adapt in tough situations.
See also: Scott Boland Stars as India Slumps to 185 on Chaotic Day 1
Pakistan fought back in a spirited manner, led by Shan Masood’s brave century, but South Africa’s all-round performance ensured a routine finish by chasing a modest target of 58 in just 7.1 overs.
Pakistan’s Resilience: A Long Day in the Field
Early Momentum for South Africa. South Africa didn’t think they would have to bowl 122.1 overs to send Pakistan back in their second innings after enforcing the follow-on with a 421-run lead. South Africa’s day began pretty well when Marco Jansen removed night watcher Khurram Shahzad early, followed by Kagiso Rabada’s brilliant delivery to send Kamran Ghulam back.

Rabada’s wicket not only broke Pakistan’s resistance but also marked his 50th Test scalp at Newlands. The delivery, a seaming beauty, shattered Ghulam’s middle stump and exemplified Rabada’s brilliance despite occasional lapses in discipline.

Masood and Shakeel’s Determined Stand
Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel made the South African bowlers toil. Masood continued from his overnight score of 102, showing exemplary technique and temperament. But his dismissal – after a disputed DRS decision – triggered a collapse. Shakeel too fell after being squared up by Rabada, leaving Pakistan vulnerable.

Agha and Rizwan’s Grit
Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha revived Pakistan’s innings with an 88-run stand, frustrating South Africa in the process. The partnership saw calculated aggression, particularly from Agha, who punished wayward deliveries. However, Keshav Maharaj’s persistence paid off as he removed Rizwan with a perfectly placed short cover fielder. Agha followed soon after, undone by a delivery that turned and bounced sharply.

Clinical South Africa Seal WTC Final
South Africa’s openers did not waste much time to chase down the 58-run target after a long grind in the field. David Bedingham stole the show with an explosive 47 not out off 30 balls, some exquisite strokes of which left the crowd delighted. Aiden Markram was stable support for South Africa to finish the match in 7.1 overs as they concluded an unforgettable victory.

Key Performances: South Africa
Keshav Maharaj: The turning point came from Maharaj himself. His strike helped Pakistan collapse with key wickets falling – that of Rizwan and Agha.
Kagiso Rabada: Newlands will be etched in memory as Rabada struck his 50th wicket.
David Bedingham: His unbeaten 47 in the final innings gave South Africa an easy win over.
Key Performances: Pakistan
Shan Masood: Masood’s gritty century was a highlight of Pakistan’s innings, underlining his class and determination.
Salman Agha & Mohammad Rizwan: Their partnership provided hope, though it wasn’t enough to avoid defeat.

The Bigger Picture: South Africa’s Dominance
This victory shows South Africa their seventh successive Test victory, further building up to be a huge force in the WTC. Their capability to enforce follow-ons, capitalise on crucial moments, and capitalize on their opponents’ errors would serve well for the final.
Pakistani Lesson:
The Pakistan team showed a glimpse of promise, especially with their resilience during the second innings. Improvement in batting and fielding consistency for the first innings will be necessary to compete at the highest level.
Future Ahead
With the WTC final in sight, South Africa will look to continue the good work and sort out minor issues like overstepping and dropped catches. Pakistan, on the other hand, needs to rebuild and refine their approach as they gear up for the future series.
Conclusion
South Africa’s ten-wicket win over Pakistan was a show of dominance, grit, and skill. Pakistan fought valiantly, but South Africa’s all-round excellence proved too much to handle. With their WTC final berth secured, South Africa now stands as a strong contender for the coveted title.