South Africa Stuns Pakistan with Historic Test Win in Rawalpindi

Keshav Maharaj’s seven-wicket haul and Senuran Muthusamy’s all-round brilliance powered the Proteas to a memorable triumph in a match that showcased their resilience and tactical acumen.

Pakistan, opting to bat first after winning the toss, posted 333 in their first innings, with captain Shan Masood (87) and Kamran Ghulam (66) leading the charge. However, Maharaj’s career-best 7/102, supported by Dane Paterson’s 2/75, kept Pakistan in check. South Africa’s reply was formidable, reaching 404, thanks to Muthusamy’s gritty 89 and a surprising 56 from Kagiso Rabada. Their 95-run partnership for the ninth wicket flipped the game, handing South Africa a vital 71-run lead.

Pakistan’s second innings collapsed to 138 in 49.3 overs, with Simon Harmer’s 6/50 and Maharaj’s 2/34 exploiting the spin-friendly conditions. Chasing a modest 68, South Africa sealed the win in 12.3 overs, with Ryan Rickelton (25*) hitting the winning six and Aiden Markram contributing a brisk 42.

Maharaj, named Player of the Match, was the architect of South Africa’s dominance, claiming nine wickets and adding a crucial 30 runs. Muthusamy, the Player of the Series, scored 106 runs and took 11 wickets across the series, cementing his status as a rising star. Rabada’s unexpected batting heroics proved a game-changer, while Pakistan’s Asif Afridi impressed with 6/79 in South Africa’s first innings.

South Africa’s Aiden Markram hailed his team’s response after a first-Test loss: “The guys stepped up under pressure. This win is a huge confidence boost.” Pakistan’s Shan Masood admitted missed opportunities hurt his side: “South Africa fought back well. We didn’t finish our first innings strongly, and it cost us.”

The tied 1-1 series left fans wanting more, but both teams earned 12 points in the ICC World Test Championship, with South Africa and Pakistan now at a 50% points percentage. The victory underscores South Africa’s growing prowess in subcontinental conditions, while Pakistan will look to address their batting frailties.

South Africa now prepares for a tour of India, while Pakistan aims to regroup for upcoming challenges. The Rawalpindi Test will be remembered as a testament to South Africa’s grit and a thrilling chapter in Test cricket’s enduring appeal.