South Africa, under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, achieved a significant 10-wicket victory over Pakistan on Monday in the second and final Test match of the series held at Newlands, Cape Town.
This triumph allowed the Proteas to complete a clean sweep over Pakistan in the two-match Test series.
As reported by the ICC, Pakistan commenced Day 4 of the second Test trailing South Africa by 208 runs, with nine wickets remaining in their second innings.
Pakistan's captain, Shan Masood, who remained unbeaten overnight, continued to chip away at South Africa's total, supported by the middle order. However, South Africa struck early in the first session, claiming the wickets of Khurram Shahzad (18) and Kamran Ghulam (28).
The introduction of the new ball revitalized South Africa's attack, leading to the dismissal of Saud Shakeel in the 83rd over. Shortly thereafter, debutant Kwena Maphaka made a pivotal impact by trapping Masood lbw, sending him back to the pavilion after a commendable 145 runs.
Facing renewed pressure, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha displayed commendable determination, forming a crucial partnership that brought Pakistan to 398-5 at Tea, reducing the deficit to just 23 runs.
However, the Pakistan innings faltered in the final session. Keshav Maharaj emerged as South Africa's standout performer, taking the wickets of Rizwan, Salman, and Aamer Jamal. When Kagiso Rabada dismissed Mir Hamza for 16, Pakistan concluded their innings at 478, setting a modest target of 58 runs for the Proteas.
David Bedingham, having been elevated to the opener position, aggressively pursued the target, scoring an impressive unbeaten 44 runs off just 30 deliveries, leading South Africa to a swift victory in only 43 balls without losing a wicket.
Ryan Rickelton earned the Player of the Match title for his remarkable double century, which enabled South Africa to establish a formidable first innings total of 615. Pakistan, in contrast, was dismissed for a mere 194 in their first innings and was subsequently asked to follow on.
Marco Jansen was recognized as the Player of the Series due to his outstanding all-round performance, contributing 80 runs and taking 10 wickets throughout the series.
This victory allowed the Proteas to maintain their unbeaten streak during the home summer, achieving four consecutive wins, as well as an overall successful season.
With their triumph in the first Test, Temba Bavuma's team has already secured a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final, where they will face Australia at Lord's.
South Africa's point percentage of 69.44 positions them to conclude this World Test Championship cycle as the leaders of the league phase.
