South Africa Thrashes Pakistan by 8 Wickets to Level Series

By Harshit - Oct 23, 2025 03:20 PM
Last updated on Oct 23, 2025 03:20 PM

In a thrilling turnaround, South Africa defeated Pakistan by eight wickets in the second Test at Rawalpindi on October 23, 2025, leveling the two-match series 1-1. Off-spinner Simon Harmer was the star of the match, claiming 6 wickets for 50 runs and dismantling Pakistan’s second innings for just 138 runs. This set South Africa a modest target of 68, which they reached comfortably, finishing at 73 for 2 in just 12.3 overs. The combined efforts of Harmer and Keshav Maharaj, who took 17 wickets between them in the match, were key to South Africa’s dominant performance.

The first innings of the match had already set the tone, with South Africa posting 404 runs, bolstered by a brilliant last-wicket partnership between Seerun Muthusamy (89 not out) and Kagiso Rabada (71). Their 98-run stand lifted South Africa to a 71-run lead over Pakistan, giving them crucial momentum heading into the second innings. This lower-order heroics were instrumental in creating pressure on Pakistan and set the stage for the visitors’ victory.

The match also highlighted South Africa’s adaptability and strategic play, particularly on a pitch that assisted spin. The visitors effectively combined aggressive batting, disciplined bowling, and smart field placements to gain the upper hand throughout the contest. Pakistan struggled to build partnerships, and key wickets fell at crucial junctures, making it difficult for them to challenge South Africa’s dominance.

Harmer and Maharaj: Spin Duo Dominates

Simon Harmer’s 6-wicket haul in Pakistan’s second innings was a masterclass in off-spin bowling. His ability to exploit the pitch conditions and maintain accuracy troubled Pakistan’s top and middle order. Keshav Maharaj complemented him perfectly, taking multiple key wickets in both innings. Together, the spin duo accounted for 17 wickets, underlining the potency of South Africa’s spin attack in subcontinental conditions.

Harmer’s performance also marked a milestone, making him the third South African to reach 1,000 wickets in first-class cricket. Maharaj, returning from injury, showcased his consistency and control, ensuring that Pakistan’s batsmen could not settle and build partnerships. Their combined pressure forced early dismissals and created momentum that South Africa never relinquished.

South Africa's Chase and Batting Brilliance

Chasing just 68 runs, South Africa’s batsmen approached the target with confidence and composure. Captain Aiden Markram led from the front with a brisk 42 off 45 balls, striking eight boundaries. Despite being dismissed when the team needed only four runs, Markram’s innings set a positive tone for the chase.

Tristan Stubbs, who had a disappointing first innings with a duck, redeemed himself by hitting the winning runs, including a six that sealed the match. Ryan Rickelton (25 not out) provided stability in the chase, ensuring that the team reached the target with minimal risk. The batting lineup’s depth and ability to handle pressure contributed significantly to South Africa’s dominant win.

Pakistan’s Collapse and Key Moments

Pakistan’s second innings collapsed quickly under South Africa’s spin assault. Overnight batsmen Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan fell early to Harmer, scoring 50 and 16 respectively. Their dismissals triggered a batting collapse, and the rest of the lineup struggled to counter the visitors’ bowlers.

Salman Ali Agha made a brave attempt with 28 runs but was eventually dismissed by Maharaj, who also executed a stumping to finish off Pakistan’s resistance. The lack of partnerships and inability to capitalize on starts was a major factor in Pakistan’s defeat. Harmer and Maharaj exploited every weakness, leaving Pakistan with no answers to South Africa’s disciplined bowling.

Implications and Future Outlook

The series now stands level at 1-1, giving South Africa momentum and confidence as they aim to maintain their standing in the World Test Championship. The performance also demonstrates the team’s strength in spin bowling and the effectiveness of their lower order under pressure.

For Pakistan, the result highlights areas that need urgent attention, including building partnerships, handling spin under pressure, and improving resilience in critical moments. The team will need to regroup and strategize ahead of future fixtures to avoid similar collapses.

Summary

South Africa’s eight-wicket victory in Rawalpindi showcased a complete team performance. Brilliant bowling by Harmer and Maharaj, effective batting by Markram and Stubbs, and strategic execution throughout the match ensured a dominant win. With the series now leveled, both teams will look forward to the next encounters with high stakes and renewed determination.

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