The Proteas pulled off a gutsy performance to defeat Pakistan by eight wickets in the second and final Test in Rawalpindi, levelling the series at 1-1.
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Maharaj’s Match-Winning Spell
The spin trio dominated on Day 2 as Keshav Maharaj returned to the side and spun a web around the hosts. Maharaj’s return yielded key wickets and helped trigger Pakistan’s collapse, laying the platform for the tourists’ comeback. He ended with match figures of 9/136.
Muthusamy’s Grit and Rabada’s Resistance
Senuran Muthusamy delivered one of his finest Test performances, anchoring the Proteas’ recovery with an unbeaten 89 in a vital ninth-wicket stand of 98 alongside Kagiso Rabada. The pair’s partnership turned the match on its head, grinding down Pakistan’s bowlers, shifting momentum, and giving South Africa the lead that ultimately decided the contest. Muthusamy’s calm under pressure, coupled with his earlier control with the ball, earned him Player of the Series honours and marked him as one of the Proteas’ most dependable all-rounders.
Turning the Series Around
After going down by 93 runs in the first Test, South Africa entered Rawalpindi with renewed intent. Maharaj and Muthusamy’s performances changed the narrative: Maharaj struck early to dismantle Pakistan’s first innings, and the lower-order resistance added a lead that proved decisive. Pakistan’s reply faltered, and the Proteas won by eight wickets after chasing down Pakistan’s target of 68.
What It Means & What’s Next
By drawing the series, South Africa claim valuable points in the ICC World Test Championship standings and reaffirm their status as one of cricket’s top sides in red-ball formats. Pakistan, meanwhile, will be disappointed not to have converted home advantage into a series win. The result sets up a compelling future for both teams, with momentum now firmly shifted toward the Proteas in the longer format.
