Pakistan Stuns South Africa in Thrilling Test Clash to Snap 10-Match Winning Streak
Pakistan secured a dramatic 93-run victory over world champions South Africa in Lahore, ending their 10-Test winning streak through dominant spin bowling and crucial batting contributions.
Match Highlights
Pakistan 378 (Imam 93, Agha 93; Muthusamy 6-117) & 167 (Babar 42; Muthusamy 5-57)
South Africa 269 (De Zorzi 104; Noman 6-112) & 183 (Brevis 54; Shaheen 4-33, Noman 4-79)
Result: Pakistan won by 93 runs
Key Performances
- Noman Ali starred with a 10-wicket match haul (6-112 & 4-79), exploiting spin-friendly conditions.
- Shaheen Afridi delivered a fiery reverse-swing spell (4-33) to dismantle South Africa’s tail.
- Debutant Dewald Brevis fought valiantly with a 54-run knock but lacked support.
Turning Points
- Day 4 Collapse: South Africa lost 8 wickets for 132 runs after resuming at 51-2.
- De Zorzi’s Early Exit: First-innings centurion Tony de Zorzi fell lbw to Shaheen’s third ball of the day.
- Spin Domination: Noman Ali and Sajid Khan combined for 14 wickets, capitalizing on Lahore’s dry pitch.
Series Context
- Pakistan jumps to 2nd in the 2025-27 Test Championship standings behind Australia.
- South Africa’s 10-Test streak, including their WTC Final win over Australia, ends abruptly.
- The second Test begins 20 October, with South Africa seeking redemption.
Post-Match Reactions
Pakistan captain Babar Azam praised the team’s "relentless intensity," while Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma acknowledged "critical lapses in execution."
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