Cape Town, January 2, 2025: The second Test between Pakistan and South Africa will commence tomorrow at Newlands, Cape Town, with the hosts leading the two-match series 1-0. South Africa claimed a thrilling two-wicket victory in a low-scoring encounter in Centurion last week.
While South Africa has finalized its squad for the decisive match, Pakistan is yet to announce its playing XI.
The Proteas have made three key changes as they aim to clinch the series and solidify their dominance ahead of the World Test Championship final. All-rounder Wiaan Mulder replaces Tony de Zorzi, adding balance to the lineup. Spinner Keshav Maharaj returns after recovering from injury, taking Corbin Bosch’s place—a move suggesting the team is banking on spin to play a significant role later in the game. Additionally, pacer Kwena Maphaka will make his Test debut, stepping in for Dane Paterson.
South Africa’s final XI:
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Kwena Maphaka.
