The Proteas needed 148 runs to take a 1-0 lead, and, most importantly, secure a spot in the WTC final, to be played in June next year. Pakistan, who had been dismissed for 211 in the first innings after batting first, conceded a 90-run lead after South Africa made 301 in their first essay.

The hosts managed 237 next up, giving South Africa a target of 148, with a win assuring them of their second ICC men’s final in a year. Temba Bavuma’s team began the day on 27-3, but once Aiden Markram departed for 37, Pakistan came back in the game. Mohammad Abbas bowled unchanged, picking up a six-for, as South Africa fell from 96-4 to 99-8 in the space of 11 deliveries.

However, Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen ensured there were no further hiccups, leading South Africa to a memorable win. South Africa have played 11 games in the 2023/24 World Test Championship, winning seven games with one draw.

The victory against Pakistan has taken their PCT (percentage of points won) to 66.67%. Even if South Africa end up losing the second Test against Pakistan, beginning next week, their PCT will be a healthy 61.11%, which can only be overhauled by one of the other sides in contention, Australia.

Updated WTC points table after the South Africa vs Pakistan first Test

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