South Africa has secured its place for the inaugural World Test Championship final set to take place at Lord's Cricket Ground on June 25, 2025, following their dramatic two-wicket victory over Pakistan at Supersport Park. With both teams aware of the stakes, the match showcased the intense and unpredictable nature of Test cricket, leaving fans at the edge of their seats.
On the fourth day of the first Test, South Africa entered the day needing 148 runs for victory. Things took a turn for the worse when they fell from 96 for 4 to 99 for 8 thanks to the outstanding performance of Pakistan's Mohammad Abbas, who returned to the Test arena with remarkable figures of 6 for 54. It was at this precarious juncture, with only two wickets left, when Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen came together to form what can only be described as one of the most electrifying partnerships seen on the cricket field.
Rabada, often renowned for his value with the ball, proved he was no slouch with the bat either. His aggressive knock of 31 not out from just 26 balls, coupled with Jansen’s composed 16 not out, turned the tide back definitively toward South Africa. They put together an exhilarating 51-run partnership for the ninth wicket, leading their team to what had seemed like an improbable win just moments earlier.
Earlier, Temba Bavuma played a key role with his measured innings of 40 runs but suffered what many deemed to be a contentious decision. Caught behind off Abbas, replays suggested the ball may have brushed his pocket rather than his bat. Despite the uncertainty, Bavuma chose against asking for a review. This dismissal triggered the collapse: South Africa lost four wickets for just three runs, bringing the spectators close to despair as the scoreline dipped sharply.
South Africa had initially established control with solid performances from their top order, but the resurgence of Abbas was both dramatic and disheartening for the hosts. The Pakistani bowler was relentless throughout the match, showcasing accuracy and skill, effectively dismantling the South African line-up. It was clearly Abdul's day, highlighted by his six wickets, which gave Pakistan hope of stealing an unexpected win.
Yet, as cricket often teaches us, the game is never truly over until the final ball is bowled. Rabada and Jansen shifted the momentum dramatically, maneuvering with conviction as they took South Africa past the finish line. Jansen’s winning runs, hit with determination, saw the stands erupt with joy and relief, as the match concluded with South Africa at 150 for 8.
Reflecting on the tumultuous nature of the victory, captain Temba Bavuma remarked, "[It was] quite an emotional one. It was a good advert for Test cricket, a bit of a rollercoaster. We did it the hard way but are glad we are able to get the result." His sentiments were echoed widely, with fans and insiders recognizing the significance of this win — marking South Africa's historic qualification for the final.
The Proteas have shown resilience throughout the World Test Championship series, having navigated through early challenges and setbacks. Winning seven out of their 11 matches, South Africa has proven to be a formidable force, overcoming the odds and delivering compelling cricket when it mattered most.
With this match, South Africa not only secured their spot at Lord's but also made history as the first team to qualify for the WTC final. Their achievement stands as evidence of the team's growth and potential, especially as cricket enthusiasts await their final clash against either Australia or India.
While Pakistan came close to pulling off what would have been a significant upset, their efforts should also be recognized. With performances led by Abbas, they demonstrated the unpredictability of the game. But, as Bavuma concluded, it is moments like these, those miraculous comebacks, which epitomize the spirit of Test cricket and keep fans coming back for more.