LAHORE – Pakistan surged to the second spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings after a stunning 93-run win over South Africa in the opening match of the two-Test series at the Gaddafi Stadium on Wednesday.
The victory propelled Shan Masood’s side above Bangladesh, England, India, and Sri Lanka, giving Pakistan a perfect 100 PCT and 12 points. Australia continue to lead the nine-team WTC table.
Speaking after the win, captain Shan Masood said: “I think you always have to start well. It’s a great opportunity playing the team that won the previous Test Championship. We are very excited to be back home, to be playing Test cricket, and to start off with a win. That’s a great start.”
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Pakistan’s spinners once again proved decisive as Noman Ali and Sajid Khan shared six wickets before Shaheen Shah Afridi produced a fiery spell to wrap up the innings. Shaheen finished with four wickets, sealing Pakistan’s third consecutive home Test win over South Africa.
Chasing 277 for victory, South Africa were bowled out for 183. Dewald Brevis top-scored with an aggressive 54 off 54 balls, while Ryan Rickelton added 45. Noman Ali claimed his 10th wicket of the match, finishing with figures of 10 for 191 to earn the Player of the Match award.
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The win also ended South Africa’s impressive streak of ten consecutive Test victories.
The second and final Test of the series will be played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium from October 20.