South Africa defeated Pakistan in a thrilling Test match, securing their place in the World Test Championship final.
South Africa secured their place in June's World Test Championship final by holding their nerve to beat Pakistan by two wickets on an enthralling fourth day of the first Test in Centurion. Chasing 148 for victory, the Proteas fell from 96-4 to 99-8, including the loss of three wickets for no runs in four balls. Pakistan seamer Mohammad Abbas, playing his first Test for more than three years, took 6-54 but the hosts found an unlikely batting hero in number 10 Kagiso Rabada.
He crashed 31 not out from 26 balls in a partnership of 51 with Marco Jansen, who finished 16 not out. The win keeps South Africa top of the Test Championship table and ensures they will contest the final for the first time and face either Australia or India at Lord's.'It was a good advert for Test cricket, a bit of a rollercoaster. We did it the hard way but are glad we are able to get the result.'South Africa had the better of most of the first three days but began the fourth day 27-3 with their hopes in the balance. Experienced pair Bavuma and Aiden Markram settled early nerves until Abbas bowled Markram for 37 for his first wicket of the fourth day. Abbas, with his immaculate lines and lengths, bowled throughout the 30.3 overs of play either side of lunch on a lively pitch. The Proteas' innings hit real strife after Bavuma was given caught behind off the seamer for 40, although replays suggested the ball flicked his pocket rather than bat, potentially saving the South Africa skipper had he chosen to review. Naseem Shah then bowled Kyle Verreynne for two and Abbas had David Bedingham and Corbin Bosch caught behind in the next over. At that stage South Africa needed a further 49 with two wickets left as Rabada joined all-rounder Jansen. First the pair reached lunch at 116-8, calming some of the drama. Afterwards Rabada played the decisive han
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