South Africa is on the verge of securing a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final next June at Lord’s, but must win at least one of the two upcoming tests against Pakistan, starting with the Boxing Day match in Pretoria.
Following a remarkable run of five consecutive test victories over the West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, South Africa has climbed to the top of the WTC standings. This strong performance positions them well for a potential showdown against Australia, India, or Sri Lanka in the final.
The Proteas will have two opportunities to secure their place, with the second test set to take place at Newlands in Cape Town from January 3 to 7. With home advantage and a solid track record against Pakistan, expectations are high for South Africa to clinch the series.
The young South African squad has surpassed expectations, gaining momentum since their successful tour in Guyana in August. In contrast, Pakistan has historically struggled in South Africa, having never won a test series there and losing their last seven matches.
The tourists arrive without coach Jason Gillespie, who recently resigned and has been succeeded by former fast bowler Aqib Javed. However, Pakistan’s recent home series victory over England in October and a 3-0 ODI whitewash of South Africa may provide a confidence boost.
Key players for Pakistan include promising 22-year-old batter Saim Ayoub, who excelled in the ODIs with two centuries, along with contributions from Salman Ali Agha, Mohammad Rizwan, and Naseem Shah. Shan Masood will captain the side in the test series.
On the bowling front, Pakistan appears to be at a disadvantage, while South Africa boasts a formidable attack led by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, well-suited to the fast-bowling conditions.
South Africa is hopeful to have all-rounder Wiaan Mulder back after he sustained a finger injury against Sri Lanka. However, there are concerns about the fitness of key left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who missed the ODI series due to an adductor strain. Both Mulder and Maharaj are included in the test squad but must pass fitness tests before the series begins.