CAPE TOWN – South Africa's cricket team, the Proteas, delivered a commanding performance at Newlands on Monday, January 6, 2025, completing a 10-wicket series sweep over Pakistan. This victory, their seventh consecutive Test win, places them firmly in the history books alongside the legendary side of 2002-2003 led by Graeme Smith, which secured nine consecutive Test victories.

The match showcased both grit and dominance from the Proteas. After dismissing Pakistan for a modest 194 in the first innings, South Africa enforced the follow-on. However, Pakistan staged a spirited comeback, batting resolutely for nearly 13 and a half hours to post 478 in their second innings. The Proteas' endurance and patience were thoroughly tested during this period, especially from the third session on day two to the close of play on day four.

Despite the challenge, South Africa’s bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada and Kwena Maphaka, rose to the occasion. Rabada was instrumental, claiming six wickets across the match and bowling more overs than any other fast bowler. Maphaka's fiery spells, including a crucial dismissal of Pakistan captain Shan Masood, were equally vital. Masood's gritty 145 off 251 balls was the highlight of Pakistan’s resistance, but his departure marked the turning point.

Captain Temba Bavuma lauded his team’s resilience, emphasizing the value of such hard-fought victories. "It can only make us better as a unit," Bavuma said. Under his leadership, the Proteas remain unbeaten, with eight wins and one draw since he took over the captaincy.

South Africa’s chase of a modest 58-run target was clinical, completed in just 7.1 overs by David Bedingham and Aiden Markram. Bedingham stepped in as an opener after Ryan Rickelton suffered a hamstring injury earlier in the match, and the duo made light work of the total to secure the victory.

With this triumph, the Proteas have secured their spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord's in June 2025. It marks a remarkable turnaround for the team, which began this WTC cycle with just one win in four matches.

Coach Shukri Conrad plans to arrange additional fixtures to prepare the squad for the WTC final, recognizing the need to maintain momentum and readiness. Reflecting on the team’s journey, Bavuma noted, "There is something special brewing amongst the team."

The Cape Town Test also featured standout performances, including Rickelton’s monumental 259 in the first innings, which set the foundation for South Africa's dominance. With their recent success and unwavering team spirit, the Proteas head to Lord's as a formidable force, ready to take on Australia and vie for the prestigious WTC title.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]