South Africa ominates Pakistan with 10-wicket win in 2nd test, seals 2-0 series victory!

South Africa secured a dominant 10-wicket win over Pakistan in the second Test on Monday in Cape Town. The victory sealed a 2-0 series triumph despite a strong fightback from Pakistan in their second innings. After being forced to follow on, Pakistan battled to 478 all out, still 421 runs behind South Africa’s massive first-innings total.

South Africa, who recently qualified for the World Test Championship final, easily chased down the target of 58 in just 7.1 overs, sealing the win late on the fourth day.

David Bedingham, playing in place of Ryan Rickelton, who suffered a hamstring strain, led the charge. Bedingham smashed 44 not out off just 30 balls, guiding South Africa to a comfortable victory. The chase was completed in quick time, demonstrating South Africa’s dominance in the match.

Pakistan, trailing by 421 runs after the first innings, showed some resistance in their second innings. Captain Shan Masood played a valiant knock, scoring 145 runs. However, he fell to debutant Kwena Maphaka, trapped leg before wicket by the 18-year-old. Masood’s dismissal came shortly after Kagiso Rabada removed Saud Shakeel for 23, ending a promising 51-run partnership.

Pakistan had already been dealing with a batter short after Saim Ayub suffered a broken ankle while fielding on the first day. After the double blow, Pakistan remained 92 runs behind. However, Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha kept fighting, adding 88 for the sixth wicket.

Aamer Jamal also contributed with a quick-fire 34 before Pakistan’s innings ended. Despite these efforts, South Africa’s bowlers faced little assistance from a placid pitch.

Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, expected to play a key role, struggled to generate spin. He bowled 45 overs, taking three wickets for 137 runs. Still, he played a crucial part in Pakistan’s downfall. South Africa’s bowlers managed to apply pressure consistently despite the lack of support from the pitch.

South Africa heads into the World Test Championship final against Australia in June with momentum. Their win in Cape Town marks their seventh consecutive victory, making it their second-longest winning streak in history. South Africa’s all-around performance in the series showed their strength and depth, setting the stage for a thrilling Test championship final at Lord’s.