South Africa cruised to a commanding 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second and final Test at Newlands, securing the series 2-0. Chasing a modest target of 58, the hosts reached the total in just 7.1 overs on Day 4, wrapping up the match in emphatic fashion.
Pakistan’s spirited second-innings fightback saw them post 478 after being asked to follow on. The effort was spearheaded by captain Shan Masood, who scored a resilient 145 on a placid pitch. However, South Africa’s bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada (3-115) and Keshav Maharaj (3-137), steadily dismantled the visitors, capitalizing on poor shot selection.
Clinical Chase
South Africa’s team management promoted David Bedingham to open the second innings after a hamstring strain sidelined Ryan Rickelton, who had scored a double-century in the first innings. Bedingham smashed a quick 47 off 30 balls, ensuring a swift victory for the home side.
“The result is very satisfying. It was a great display of Test cricket, with challenges for both batters and bowlers,” said South Africa captain Temba Bavuma. “While we had moments where we let the game slip, the experience will make us stronger as a team.”
The victory marked South Africa’s seventh consecutive Test win, their second-best streak after winning nine in a row between 2002 and 2003. It also serves as excellent preparation for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord’s from June 11-15.
Pakistan’s Fightback
Resuming on 213-1, Pakistan fought valiantly on Day 4, despite being effectively two wickets down after in-form batter Saim Ayub fractured his ankle on the first day. The new ball in the afternoon session proved decisive, with young pacer Kwena Maphaka, South Africa’s youngest-ever Test player at 18, trapping Masood leg-before.
Key contributions from Mohammad Rizwan (41) and Salman Agha (48) helped Pakistan reach a follow-on total of 478—the highest follow-on score ever by a visiting team in South Africa. Despite the improvement after their first-innings collapse for 194, Pakistan fell short of mounting a serious challenge.
Masood acknowledged the team’s shortcomings: “We didn’t start well with the bat or ball, conceding too many runs in South Africa’s first innings and collapsing early on a good pitch. The fightback in the second innings showed character, but we need to learn how to win key moments.”
Match Highlights
South Africa’s first innings: 615, with Ryan Rickelton scoring a double century.
Pakistan’s first innings: 194.
Pakistan’s second innings: 478, with Shan Masood top-scoring with 145.
South Africa chased 58 in 7.1 overs without losing a wicket.
South Africa’s dominant performance further solidifies their position as a formidable Test side as they prepare for the WTC final.
