South Africa announce playing XI for second Test against Pakistan

South Africa have made three changes to their lineup for the second test against Pakistan, starting tomorrow, 3rd January, at Newlands, Cape Town. Kwena Maphaka is set to make his debut, while Wiaan Mulder and Keshav Maharaj return to the XI. They replace Tony de Zorzi, Corbin Bosch and Dane Paterson, respectively.  

This match follows South Africa’s dramatic two-wicket victory in the first test at Centurion, where they secured their place in the World Test Championship final. Chasing a target of 148, South Africa found themselves in dire straits at 99 for 8. However, Kagiso Rabada’s vital 31 runs and Marco Jansen’s unbeaten contribution helped forge a match-winning 51-run partnership to take the team over the line.  

For Pakistan, Mohammad Abbas delivered a phenomenal spell, taking 6 for 54 and ripping through South Africa’s top and middle order. Earlier in the match, Pakistan posted 237 runs in their second innings, courtesy of Saud Shakeel’s resilient 84 and Babar Azam’s solid 50. Marco Jansen was South Africa’s star with the ball, claiming six wickets in Pakistan’s innings.  

South Africa’s victory not only secured their spot in the World Test Championship final but also extended Pakistan’s winless streak in South Africa, which dates back to 2007. 

South Africa Playing XI: 

Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka