In a thrilling display of skill and determination, South Africa stormed to an eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second Test at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 23, 2025, leveling the two-match Test series at 1-1. The triumph, South Africa’s first Test win in Pakistan since 2007, highlighted their adaptability in spin-friendly conditions and set the stage for an exciting three-match T20I series starting October 28 at the same venue.
From Deficit to Dominance: South Africa’s Turnaround
Pakistan, buoyed by a 93-run victory in the first Test in Lahore, elected to bat first after winning the toss. They posted a competitive 333, led by captain Shan Masood’s resolute 87, Saud Shakeel’s 66, and Abdullah Shafique’s 57. Keshav Maharaj, the standout performer, claimed a sensational 7/102, ensuring Pakistan’s total remained within reach.
South Africa’s response was a masterclass in grit. At 210/7, they faced a potential deficit, but Senuran Muthusamy’s unbeaten 89 and Kagiso Rabada’s explosive 71, featuring a match-defining 95-run stand, propelled them to 404. This 71-run lead proved crucial, as Pakistan’s second innings unraveled dramatically.
Pakistan’s Collapse Hands South Africa the Edge
Resuming their second innings at 94/4, Pakistan pinned hopes on Babar Azam, who crafted a stylish 50 off 87 balls with seven fours. However, Simon Harmer’s relentless spin bowling (6/50) dismissed Azam and triggered a collapse. Mohammad Rizwan’s 18 was the only other notable contribution as Pakistan’s tail folded, managing just 138 in 49.3 overs. Harmer’s eight wickets in the match and Maharaj’s 2/34 underscored South Africa’s spin dominance.
A Breezy Chase Seals Historic Win
Chasing a modest 68, South Africa made light work of the target in 12.3 overs. Captain Aiden Markram led from the front with a brisk 42 off 45 balls, smashing eight boundaries, while Ryan Rickelton’s unbeaten 25, capped by a towering six, sealed the victory. Noman Ali, Pakistan’s standout bowler with 2/40 and 14 wickets in the series, provided brief resistance, but the Proteas’ chase was clinical.
Star Performers
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Keshav Maharaj (Player of the Match): Maharaj’s 7/102 in the first innings and 2/34 in the second, paired with a vital 30 runs, made him the cornerstone of South Africa’s victory.
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Senuran Muthusamy (Player of the Series): Muthusamy’s 89 not out and 11 wickets across the series showcased his all-round brilliance, earning him the series accolade.
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Simon Harmer: The spinner’s 6/50 in Pakistan’s second innings was a game-changer, dismantling the hosts’ batting lineup.
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Kagiso Rabada: Known for his pace, Rabada’s 71 off 97 balls was a surprise package, shifting momentum decisively.
What’s Next ?
The tied series sets up an electrifying three-match T20I series, with the first game at Rawalpindi on October 28. South Africa will look to carry their momentum, while Pakistan aims to leverage home advantage and address their batting inconsistencies. In the ICC World Test Championship, both teams sit at a 50% points percentage, with South Africa gaining 12 points from this win. This historic victory highlights South Africa’s growing prowess in challenging conditions and promises more thrilling battles in the upcoming T20Is.
