Pakistan rise to second in WTC standings after defeating South Africa

Pakistan climbed to second place in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings after a 93-run victory over South Africa in the first Test of the two-match series at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

The win gave Pakistan 12 WTC points, taking their percentage of points (PCT) to 100 — ahead of Bangladesh, England, India, and Sri Lanka. Australia continue to lead the nine-team table.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood praised his team’s strong start to the new WTC cycle. “You always have to start well. It’s a great opportunity playing the team that won the previous Test Championship. We’re excited to be back home, to start with a win, and now we move on to the next one,” he said.

Chasing 277 runs, South Africa were dismissed for 183 on the fourth day. The defeat also ended their run of 10 consecutive Test victories.

Left-arm spinner Noman Ali starred for Pakistan, claiming 10 wickets in the match, while Sajid Khan took key scalps in both innings. Shaheen Shah Afridi contributed with a fiery spell, taking four wickets in the second innings to seal the win.

Dewald Brevis top-scored for South Africa with an aggressive 54 off 54 balls, but his effort was not enough to prevent Pakistan’s third consecutive home Test victory against the Proteas.