In a thrilling Test match at Centurion, South Africa defeated Pakistan by two wickets, chasing a modest target of 148 runs. The game was intense, with Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas delivering a stellar performance, taking six wickets to keep South Africa under constant pressure. Despite losing wickets at crucial moments, South Africa’s lower order, led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, displayed nerves of steel to guide the team to victory.

Rabada 🔥🔥
South Africa i🇿🇦 in #wtcfinal #WTC2025 #Rabada#SAvPak pic.twitter.com/p94bLJGL5c

— Manish Singh (@Singhmanish_19) December 29, 2024

Securing a Spot in the WTC 25 Final

This victory has more significance than just a series lead—it guarantees South Africa a place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, set to be held at Lord’s in June 2025. Before this series, the Proteas knew that winning one of the two Tests against Pakistan would seal their qualification. With this result, no other team can now overtake them in the WTC points table.

WTC 2025 Points Table after South Africa winning 1st test against Pakistan.#WTC2025 pic.twitter.com/b4esnMRKqJ

— 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗙𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 (@meri_mrziii) December 29, 2024

South Africa’s qualification reflects their consistent performances throughout this WTC cycle. Under the steady leadership of Temba Bavuma, the team has faced numerous challenges but emerged stronger each time. Their ability to perform in crucial matches, both at home and abroad, has played a pivotal role in their success. This win also highlights the depth of their squad, with players stepping up when needed the most.

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Pakistan’s Fight to the Finish

Although Pakistan came up short, their bowlers, especially Mohammad Abbas, deserve applause for putting up a spirited fight. Abbas exploited the conditions brilliantly, almost turning the game in Pakistan’s favor. The team will look to learn from this experience and make a strong comeback in the second Test, starting on January 3 in Cape Town.

Focus Shifts to Lord’s

For South Africa, this win is about more than just qualifying—it’s a statement of their resurgence in Test cricket. After navigating through highs and lows in recent years, securing a place in the WTC final boosts their confidence and reaffirms their status among the world’s elite Test teams.

As they prepare for the ultimate battle at Lord’s, South Africa will aim to refine their strategies and maintain their winning momentum. Meanwhile, the second Test offers a chance to test their bench strength and end the series on a high note.

For now, South Africa can revel in this hard-fought and historic victory, knowing they’ve achieved one of their primary goals this season. The journey to the WTC final is complete, and the team is ready to take on the world’s best at the Home of Cricket.