South Africa to keep momentum ahead of final Test against Pakistan
1. South Africa captain Temba Bavuma says his team hasn't been ruthless when opportunity is called upon
South Africa have already secured their spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final and will aim to maintain their impressive form as they face Pakistan in the second and final Test at Newlands on Friday.
The Proteas edged out Pakistan by two wickets in a thrilling first Test in Pretoria, extending their winning streak in red-ball cricket to six matches—their best run since achieving a team-record nine consecutive victories in 2002-2003.
This winning streak has earned South Africa a place in the WTC final at Lord’s this June, though concerns linger over their fragile batting line-up, especially on the notoriously challenging Newlands pitch. Last year, the surface produced a Test against India that lasted just 107 overs, with the visitors clinching a seven-wicket win in under two days—the shortest completed Test match in history.
While the Newlands wicket is expected to play better this time, South Africa's recent record at the venue is mixed, with two losses in their last three Tests in Cape Town—a ground once considered a fortress for the home side.
"We haven’t been as clinical or ruthless as we could be," admitted South Africa captain Temba Bavuma. "But we’ve found ways to secure results. Looking at our batting group, none of us averages over 45—we’re mostly in the mid-to-late 30s—but everyone has contributed in crucial moments."
Pakistan, meanwhile, will lament missing their chance to seal the first Test, having reduced South Africa to 99-8 in their pursuit of 148 on a challenging Centurion Park pitch. A late stand between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada rescued the hosts and left Pakistan to ponder missed opportunities.
Captain Shan Masood emphasized the need for his side to capitalize on key moments. "We keep making the same mistakes," he said. "We have to close games and seize those critical opportunities. Finishing strong with both bat and ball is crucial."
Pakistan’s record in South Africa remains dismal, with just two wins in 16 Tests and none since 2007. They have lost all four of their previous Tests at Newlands.
A large holiday crowd is expected to turn out for this match, marking a rare occasion for South African fans to enjoy Test cricket at home. Under the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, this will be South Africa’s last home Test until Australia visits in September 2026 and their sole home international across all formats in 2025.
