South Africa produced a stunning comeback in the second Test at Rawalpindi, defeating Pakistan by eight wickets to level the two-match series 1-1. This crucial victory not only helped the Proteas avoid a series defeat but also lifted them up the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table, keeping their title defense alive.
Trailing 1-0 after the Lahore Test, South Africa entered Rawalpindi determined to prove a point and they did just that. With disciplined bowling and confident batting, the Proteas turned the tables on Pakistan, who had been riding high after their opening win.
Pakistan began the first innings with promise, posting 333 runs on a slow, turning pitch. Skipper Shan Masood’s steady 87 and Saud Shakeel’s composed 66 gave the hosts a competitive total. However, it was the calm before the storm as South Africa’s spinners took complete control of the game.
The turning point came when Keshav Maharaj delivered a mesmerizing spell of 7 for 102, slicing through Pakistan’s middle order. His partner Simon Harmer provided perfect support, applying constant pressure from the other end. The pair combined for 17 wickets in the match, making it nearly impossible for Pakistan’s batters to find stability.
When South Africa came out to bat, they showcased intent and resilience. Senuran Muthusamy’s unbeaten 89 anchored the innings beautifully, while Kagiso Rabada surprised everyone with a counter-attacking 71. The duo pushed the visitors to a total of 404, securing a vital 71-run lead over Pakistan.
Pakistan’s bowlers, led by Asif Afridi, fought hard but couldn’t prevent the Proteas from taking control. This batting effort gave South Africa a psychological edge going into the second innings, and they didn’t waste the opportunity.
The home side’s hopes of a comeback quickly faded as Simon Harmer unleashed another devastating spell. He claimed 6 for 50, dismantling Pakistan’s top and middle order with his sharp off-spin. Apart from Babar Azam’s gritty 50 off 87 balls, no Pakistani batter could withstand the relentless pressure.
Pakistan’s innings ended at a mere 138, setting South Africa a target of only 68 runs a chase that was completed with minimal fuss. The visitors sealed victory with eight wickets to spare, marking a strong statement in their World Test Championship journey.
This Test outcome has reshaped the early dynamics of the World Test Championship. Australia continue to dominate at the top with a perfect record, while Sri Lanka and India remain close contenders.
For South Africa, the Rawalpindi win was crucial to keeping their title defense hopes alive. The Proteas displayed strong teamwork, especially in the spin department, reminding the cricketing world why they are still among the top Test sides.
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On the other hand, Pakistan’s inconsistent batting continues to be their Achilles heel. Despite strong starts, frequent collapses under pressure have cost them valuable points. The loss at home is particularly disappointing given their earlier success in Lahore.
South Africa’s next assignment in the WTC cycle is a high-voltage home series against India in November, a clash that could define their campaign. The Proteas will aim to build on their Rawalpindi momentum and strengthen their position on the points table.
Pakistan, meanwhile, will have to regroup quickly. Their next Test challenge comes in August next year against England, where they’ll look to bounce back strongly. Until then, the focus shifts to white-ball cricket as both teams prepare for the T20I series starting October 28 in Rawalpindi.
South Africa’s dominant performance in Rawalpindi serves as a wake-up call for Pakistan. While their bowlers showed occasional brilliance, their batting lineup’s inability to handle spin remains a major concern.
For South Africa, this win reinforces their championship credentials. With Maharaj and Harmer’s spin magic, coupled with Muthusamy’s resilience, the defending champions have sent a clear message they are far from done.
As the World Test Championship race heats up, every match and every session will count. Pakistan must address their weaknesses swiftly if they wish to remain contenders, while South Africa will look to carry their winning form into the crucial series ahead.
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