South Africa Take Commanding Win Against Pakistan, Rise to Top of WTC Table

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4 Highlights: Shan Masood’s 145 in Vain as South Africa Clinch 10-Wicket Victory

South Africa vs Pakistan 2nd Test Day 4 Highlights: South Africa Seal Series Win with 10-Wicket Victory

Despite a heroic 145-run knock by Pakistan’s captain Shan Masood and a determined effort from the visitors to erase the follow-on deficit, South Africa triumphed to clinch a comprehensive 10-wicket victory in the second Test, securing a 2-0 series win at home.

Pakistan resumed Day 4 in a desperate bid to avoid defeat, with Masood leading the charge. His stunning century, accompanied by useful contributions from Salman Agha (48) and Mohammad Rizwan (41), helped Pakistan to a respectable second-innings total of 478. However, this total could not challenge the massive lead South Africa had built up in the first innings.

South Africa’s bowlers had put their team in a commanding position, and the visitors’ total was always likely to fall short. With a final target of just 58 runs to win, the Proteas made light work of the chase. Opening batsman David Bedingham played a quick-fire knock of 44 runs off just 30 balls, guiding his team to the target in only 7.1 overs, sealing a dominant win.

The victory marked a remarkable 2-0 series win for South Africa, further underlining their supremacy in the home conditions. Pakistan’s fightback, though admirable, ultimately proved insufficient against the overwhelming advantage built up by the hosts.

South Africa’s clinical performance across the Test series, both in batting and bowling, demonstrated their depth and prowess, while Pakistan will have to regroup after a series of missed opportunities.

The win guarantees South Africa’s top spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings for the 2023-25 cycle. With their dominant performance in the series, they now lead the race for the prestigious WTC final. The Proteas will next face Australia in the final, scheduled for June at Lord’s, London, where they will look to continue their strong form and secure the ultimate prize in Test cricket.

COURTESY: Sports Central

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