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Wicket Victory to Whitewash Pakistan
South Africa showcased their dominance in the Test arena with a commanding 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second Test in Cape Town, thereby clinching the series 2-0. This triumph extended their unbeaten streak in the 2024/25 season, boasting nine wins and a draw. The hosts wrapped up the match in the final session of Day 4, chasing down a mere 58-run target in just over seven overs.
Pakistan’s Spirited Fightback Falls Short
Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan’s Resistance
After being enforced to follow-on, Pakistan staged an impressive comeback with a second-innings total of 478. Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan were at the forefront of this fightback, adding an 88-run partnership post-Tea. Rizwan’s efforts included a boundary off Keshav Maharaj, bringing up Pakistan’s 400. However, Maharaj struck back, dismissing Rizwan with a soft chip to Temba Bavuma at cover.
Tail-End Heroics and Collapse
Aamer Jamal and Mir Hamza added quick runs, including a six by Hamza off Kagiso Rabada, ensuring Pakistan’s lead crossed 50. However, both fell in quick succession, leaving South Africa with a modest target to chase.
South Africa’s Aggressive Chase
Promoted to open the innings, David Bedingham made the most of his opportunity, smashing a blistering 47 off 30 balls, including five boundaries and two sixes. Partner Aiden Markram played the supporting role, ensuring the chase was completed swiftly and South Africa marked their seventh consecutive Test victory.
Key Moments in Pakistan’s Second Innings
Early Wickets in the Morning Session
The day began with South Africa’s bowlers striking early. Marco Jansen dismissed nightwatchman Khurram Shahzad with a delivery that generated extra bounce, while Kagiso Rabada’s precision bowled Kamran Ghulam with a nip-backer.
Shan Masood and Saud Shakeel’s Dismissals
Post-Lunch, the new ball proved effective for South Africa. Saud Shakeel fell to a delivery from Rabada that shaped in from around the wicket, caught at second slip. In the following over, Shan Masood was trapped LBW by Maphaka, a decision upheld upon review.
South Africa’s Bowling Prowess
South Africa’s bowling unit played a crucial role in both innings. Kagiso Rabada’s fiery spells claimed critical wickets, supported by Keshav Maharaj’s persistence. Marco Jansen provided breakthroughs at key moments, ensuring Pakistan’s batting line-up faced relentless pressure.
Series Highlights and Records
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Ryan Rickelton starred with the bat, scoring a monumental 259 in the first innings.
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Temba Bavuma and Kyle Verreynne added centuries, contributing to South Africa’s massive 615-run total.
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Despite a valiant 145 from Shan Masood and a solid 81 by Babar Azam in the second innings, Pakistan’s efforts fell short.
Learn more about South Africa’s Test dominance in recent years.
Brief Scores
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South Africa: 615 (Ryan Rickelton 259, Temba Bavuma 106, Kyle Verreynne 100; Mohammad Abbas 3-94, Salman Ali Agha 3-148) & 58/0 (David Bedingham 47*, Aiden Markram 14*)
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Pakistan: 194 (Babar Azam 58, Mohammad Rizwan 46; Kagiso Rabada 3-55, Keshav Maharaj 2-14) & 478 (Shan Masood 145, Babar Azam 81; Marco Jansen 2-85)
The Road Ahead
This series victory solidifies South Africa’s position as a formidable force in Test cricket. For Pakistan, the focus shifts to addressing vulnerabilities and preparing for upcoming challenges.
Read detailed analysis on South Africa’s bowling strategies here.
