South Africa edged out Pakistan in a nail-biting finish, clinching a two-wicket victory in the first Test at SuperSport Park, Centurion, to secure their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Chasing a modest target of 148 runs, the Temba Bavuma-led Proteas faced a fierce challenge as Pakistan’s bowlers kept striking at regular intervals. Reduced to a precarious 99/8, South Africa’s hopes seemed bleak.
However, Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada showcased nerves of steel, crafting a gritty 51-run partnership to guide their team home and seal the dramatic win. Former South African pace legend Dale Steyn expressed his excitement on social media, humorously referencing his recent membership at the prestigious Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Steyn, known for his fiery spells during his playing days, highlighted the team’s remarkable achievement, especially given their limited Test opportunities in recent years.
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“What date is the WTC final at Lord’s? As a newly admitted member of the MCC, I might need to utilize my privilege for free seating,” Steyn quipped in his tweet. He went on to praise the team’s resilience, adding, “Well done boys! Didn’t get many games, but what you got, you had to win ‘em all—and win ‘em all you did. I’ll see you there! Screaming aloud, it’s going to be monumental. Stay healthy.”
What date is the WTC final at Lords?
As a newly admitted member of the MCC, I might need to utilize my privilege for free seating. 😌
Well done boys, didn’t get many games but what you got you had to win ‘em all, and so win em all you did! And So you did.
I’ll see you there!…— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) December 30, 2024
South Africa’s qualification caps off an impressive 18 months for the side, during which they reached the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup and finished as runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup after losing to India. Now, with a shot at redemption in the WTC final, the Proteas will aim to clinch an ICC trophy that has eluded them for years. The marquee match is set to begin on June 11 at Lord’s.
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As South Africa awaits their opponent, the race for the second finalist spot heats up. Australia currently leads the pack, but with three matches remaining, Sri Lanka and India are still in contention. India’s path to the final involves beating Australia in Sydney and relying on a narrow Sri Lankan series win against the Aussies. With high stakes and plenty of drama, the road to the WTC final promises to be as thrilling as the grand finale itself.