PAK vs SA Test: Fast bowlers shined in Centurion, taking 13 wickets: An exciting match was witnessed in Centurion, where South Africa tried hard to secure their place in next year’s ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final. After struggling in batting, Pakistan made a comeback in bowling and devastated South Africa’s top order.
A total of 293 runs were scored and 13 wickets fell, making the match even more interesting.
A victory in this Test will be necessary for South Africa to guarantee their spot in the WTC Final. Right now, they are leading the WTC rankings.
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Trust shown on bowlers: Bowlers dominated in both teams
South Africa, showing confidence in their fast bowlers, fielded Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Dan Paterson and debutant Corbin Bosch. At the same time, Pakistan included Naseem Shah, Mohammad Abbas, Khurram Shahzad and Aamir Jamal.
South Africa off to a strong start in the first innings
South Africa won the toss and decided to bowl first and maintained control from the start. Corbin Bosch, playing his first match, performed brilliantly and proved his mettle by taking the wicket of captain Shan Masood.
Dane Paterson attacked from the other end and took the wicket of Sam Ayub. Pakistan’s middle order, which included the likes of Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel, also could not last long.
Ray of Hope for Pakistan
Kamran Ghulam (54) and Mohammad Rizwan (27) provided some stability by adding 79 runs for the fifth wicket. But Paterson dashed Pakistan’s hopes by dismissing Ghulam. After this, Pakistan lost four wickets within just 52 runs before tea.
Lower order effort: Khurram Shahzad and Mohammad Abbas struggled for the last wicket, but Marco Jansen ended Pakistan’s innings.
Patterson took the second five-wicket haul of his Test career by taking 5 wickets, while Bosch took 4 wickets in his first match.
South Africa’s innings: Pakistani bowlers counterattack
Pakistan’s bowlers made a great comeback. Khurram Shahzad took the wickets of Tony De Giorgi (2) and Ryan Rickelton (8) early. At the same time, Mohammad Abbas, who was returning to Test after a long time, sent Stubbs (9) to the pavilion.
Markram’s fighting innings
Aiden Markram tried to handle South Africa’s innings by scoring 47 runs. He remained at the crease till the end of the day along with captain Temba Bavuma (4*).
Suspense remains for the second day
South Africa still has to save 7 wickets, they are 129 runs behind Pakistan’s score. At the same time, Pakistan’s bowlers will try to win by continuing their excellent form.
The first day of the game in Centurion was completely in the name of the bowlers. Both teams relied on fast bowlers in their strategy and this strategy was also successful. The next day’s game will prove to be decisive, where every run and every wicket will be important.
PAK vs SA Test: Pakistan Tour of South Africa Test Series
| Category | Details |
| Match & Result | 1st Test Stumps, Day 1 – South Africa trail by 129 runs |
| Venue | SuperSport Park, Centurion |
| Date & Time | Thursday, 26th December, 13:30 |
| Series | Pakistan in South Africa, 2 Test Series, 2024/25 |
| Toss | South Africa elected to field |
Also Read: Border Gavasker Trophy Test Match India vs Australia Scorecard
Source: ICC
Why is this match important for the WTC Final?
South Africa must win this match to secure a place in the WTC Final.
Which player is making his debut?
South Africa’s Corbin Bosch made his Test debut with this match.
Who are the main bowlers of South Africa?
Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jensen, Dan Paterson and Corbin Bosch.
Who was the most effective in Pakistan’s bowling?
Khurram Shahzad strengthened the team by taking early wickets.
