Related Articles
The Boxing Day Test at Centurion showcased the very best of cricket, with South Africa edging past Pakistan in a thrilling finish on Day 4. With that win, South Africa became the first team to secure a spot in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. The focus now shifts to the second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, where the Proteas and Pakistan will clash again on a challenging wicket that promises another exciting contest.
Match Details
| Fixture | South Africa vs Pakistan, 2nd Test |
|---|---|
| Date | Thursday, 4 January 2024 – Monday, 8 January 2024 |
| Time | 10:00 AM Local |
| Venue | Newlands, Cape Town |
Team Previews
South Africa
South Africa’s dramatic two-wicket victory in the first Test underscored their resilience, particularly when chasing on a tough pitch. Aiden Markram was the standout batter, scoring 89 in the first innings and adding a vital 37 in the second innings. His form will be crucial for the hosts in Cape Town.
The bowling unit, led by Kagiso Rabada, was instrumental in keeping Pakistan’s total in check. Corbin Bosch’s all-round performance (81 runs and four wickets) was pivotal, and Dane Paterson’s five-wicket haul further strengthened their attack.
The Proteas will likely stick with their four-man bowling attack, comprising Rabada, Jansen, Bosch, and Paterson, as they aim to exploit the bowler-friendly conditions at Newlands.
Key Players: Aiden Markram, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada
Predicted XI:
Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Dane Paterson
Pakistan
Pakistan’s unpredictability continues to define their performances. After coming close to victory in Centurion, Babar Azam’s side will look to bounce back. Babar Azam and Saud Shakeel showed some consistency with the bat, while Kamran Ghulam’s half-century in the first innings provided a glimpse of his potential.
Mohammad Abbas was exceptional with the ball, taking 6/54 in the second innings and nearly winning the match for his side. Naseem Shah and Khurram Shehzad provided good support, but the team needs a more collective effort to secure a win.
Key Players: Babar Azam, Mohammad Abbas, Saud Shakeel
Predicted XI:
Shan Masood (c), Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Aamer Jamal, Naseem Shah, Khurram Shehzad, Mohammad Abbas
Pitch Report
Newlands, Cape Town, is traditionally a bowler-friendly venue. The pitch offers assistance to pacers on the first two days, while spinners come into play later. Scores around 250 in the first innings can be highly competitive.
Toss Prediction: Bowl first. Captains will prefer chasing, given the history of the ground.
Fantasy XI
| Player | Role |
|---|---|
| Kyle Verreynne | Wicketkeeper |
| Aiden Markram (c) | Batter |
| Babar Azam | Batter |
| Saud Shakeel | Batter |
| Kamran Ghulam | Batter |
| Corbin Bosch | All-Rounder |
| Marco Jansen (vc) | All-Rounder |
| Mohammad Abbas | Bowler |
| Kagiso Rabada | Bowler |
| Naseem Shah | Bowler |
| Dane Paterson | Bowler |
Winning Prediction
Both teams will approach this Test with confidence after a thrilling opener. South Africa’s balanced bowling attack and depth in batting give them an edge, especially at Newlands, a venue that historically favors the hosts. Pakistan will need standout performances from their key players to challenge South Africa on their home turf.
Prediction: South Africa to win the 2nd Test and clinch the series!
CricketPandith Match Prediction Package
Per Match Charges: 1000 Rs/Match
Monthly Package: 5000 Rs/Month (Unlimited Match)
All International/League Match Prediction Available
Download Our Cricket Pandith Android App
