South Africa registered a thrilling two-wicket victory over Pakistan on December 29, 2024, securing their spot for the World Test Championship final for the very first time. The triumph unfolded at SuperSport Park, Centurion, during the first Test of the two-match series and was marked by dramatic twists and turns, emblematic of Test cricket's unpredictable nature.
Chasing a modest target of 148 runs, South Africa found themselves perilously teetering at 99 for 8 at one stage. Amidst the brink of collapse, the partnership between Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen proved to be the defining factor. The duo shared an unbroken stand of 51 runs for the ninth wicket to clinch the match, with Rabada scoring 31 not out and Jansen contributing 16 not out, both demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination.
The match had its twists from the very onset. After South Africa set Pakistan to defend 148, the home side began their innings poorly, having scored just 27 runs for the loss of 3 wickets overnight. Things appeared grim until Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma took control. Their efforts seemed to stabilize the ship until the resurgence of Pakistan's Mohammad Abbas.
Back after more than three years on the sidelines, Abbas, with his immaculate bowling, tore through South Africa's batting lineup like a hot knife through butter. He achieved career-best figures of 6 for 54, completely altering the course of the game. He first dismissed Markram for 37, before capturing Bavuma's wicket under bizarre circumstances, leaving the batter questioning the legitimacy of the dismissal as it appeared to have missed the edge of his bat completely.
Despite the earlier setbacks, the partnership between Rabada and Jansen not only provided hope but also acted as the lifeline for the Proteas, who had escaped impending disaster with just two wickets remaining. Jansen effectively sealed the win by smashing the ball to the boundary when only two runs were needed, sending the home crowd at SuperSport Park erupting with joy.
Reflecting on Abbas’ remarkable spell, Ramiz Raja, ex-Pakistan cricketer, insightfully noted, "He’s what you called a dutiful horse"; this aptly praised Abbas's dedication and performance leading up to the dramatic conclusion of the match.
South Africa's victory solidified their place as contenders on the global stage, especially poignant as it marked the first time they would advance to the WTC finals. The team found itself riding high on confidence after having owned the first three days of play and the Test's overall momentum leading up to the final day.
Pakistan had their moments, particularly when they pushed South Africa to the edge. The rest of their bowling attack performed commendably, with Naseem Shah and Khurram Shahzad proving to be key figures, yet their collective effort fell short against the spirited South African tailenders.
The stage was set for potential heartbreak for South Africa as they faced their darkest moment, nearly reaching the 18-year low they had not experienced since January 2007, having not won a Test at home since then. Prior to this, Pakistan played their role well, making strong beginnings with their batting performances; for example, Saud Shakeel scored 84 runs and was supported by Babar Azam (50) and Kamran Ghulam (54).
This match concluded with looming questions for Pakistan, who have now endured nearly two decades without victory on South African soil, leaving them eager for retribution. The second Test offers them yet another chance to claim glory and avoid losing the series.
Meanwhile, as South Africa celebrated their accomplishment and looked toward the World Test Championship final scheduled to commence on June 11, they remain aware of upcoming challenges. Their success, fueled by strong individual contributions, underlines the potential for the nation's cricketing resurgence.
With the World Test Championship spot secured, anticipation builds for South Africa as they eye their chances at Lord’s next June. Both teams will be preparing vigorously for the second Test, where the stakes will be equally high.