South Africa became the first team to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final, after defeating Pakistan by 2 wickets in Centurion on Sunday. Needing a modest 148 to win, South Africa’s chase turned into a nightmare as Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas, returning to Test cricket after a three-year hiatus, unleashed a spell of relentless brilliance.
Abbas recorded career-best figures of 6 for 54, leaving the hosts gasping at 99 for 8. At that point, it seemed a Pakistan victory was a mere formality.
The duo of Rabada and Jansen staged an unbroken 51-run partnership that swung the match back in South Africa’s favour, with Rabada’s belligerent 31 not out off 26 balls leading the charge. Jansen, calm and composed with an unbeaten 16, struck the winning runs with a perfectly executed square drive off Abbas, sparking euphoric celebrations at SuperSport Park.
South Africa’s innings began on shaky ground, resuming at 27 for 3. Captain Temba Bavuma (40) and opener Aiden Markram (37) appeared to steady the ship, adding a vital 72 runs for the fourth wicket. However, just as the Proteas seemed to wrest control, chaos ensued.
Abbas struck thrice in quick succession, removing Markram, Bavuma, and Heinrich Klaasen in a sensational burst that saw South Africa lose four wickets for just three runs. Bavuma’s dismissal was particularly contentious, as replays suggested the ball had brushed his pocket rather than his bat. Yet, in a moment of puzzling sportsmanship, the South African skipper opted not to review and walked off.
By lunch, the scoreboard read 99 for 8, and Pakistan could already taste a famous victory. But Rabada and Jansen had other ideas.
With nothing to lose and everything to gain, Rabada launched a counterattack for the ages. Boundaries flowed as he took the fight to Pakistan’s bowlers, while Jansen held his nerve at the other end. The duo not only frustrated Pakistan but also chipped away at the target with breathtaking audacity.
Rabada’s aggression and Jansen’s resilience turned the tide, forcing Pakistan onto the back foot. The pair’s understanding, combined with their refusal to succumb to pressure, saw them edge closer to the target. When Jansen finally pierced the infield with a crisp square drive to seal the win, the crowd erupted in joy, and Pakistan’s players were left stunned.
