SA vs PAK / South Africa created history, entered the WTC final, defeated Pakistan

SA vs PAK: South Africa has added a new chapter in cricket history by making it to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC). Under the captaincy of Temba Bavuma, the team defeated Pakistan by 2 wickets in a thrilling match played in Centurion. This victory is not only a display of their excellent teamwork, but it also confirmed the ticket to the title match for the first time.

Rabada-Janson partnership changed the game

On the fourth day of the match, South Africa got a modest target of 148 runs. However, the Pakistani bowlers made it difficult too. Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen snatched victory from the jaws of defeat with an unbeaten partnership of 51 runs for the 9th wicket. Rabada played a blistering innings of 31 runs in just 26 balls, while Janson scored 16 runs with restraint.

Mohammad Abbas's tremendous performance

Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Abbas showed his ability brilliantly in the match. He took 6 wickets in the second innings and badly shook the African batting order. Abbas brought Pakistan close to victory by taking important wickets like Aiden Markram, David Bedingham and captain Temba Bavuma.

Captain Bavuma's mistake became a crisis

Temba Bavuma lost his wicket by playing an unnecessary shot during his innings. Bavuma tried to hit a big shot on Abbas's ball, but was caught out by the wicketkeeper. The special thing was that he did not take a review, while it was clearly visible in the replay that the ball hit the thigh pad instead of the bat. After this, South Africa's innings fell apart and the team lost 3 more wickets in the next 11 balls.

Jansson and Rabada became heroes

After losing 8 wickets for 99 runs, the match was tilting in favor of Pakistan, but Janson and Rabada took charge. Both showed a great mix of patience and aggression. Rabada in particular put pressure on the Pakistani bowlers and rained fours. In the end, Jansen hit a four off Mohammad Abbas to give South Africa a historic win.

Who will be South Africa's opponent in the WTC final?

The final of the World Test Championship will be played at Lord's ground in London in 2025. South Africa's opponent is still to be decided. The ongoing Test series between India and Australia will decide which team will face South Africa in the final.

This victory is not only historic for South African cricket but also a testament to the spirit and fighting spirit of their team. Now all eyes are on the final match, where South Africa will try their best to win their first WTC trophy.