Pakistan have climbed to second place in the ICC World Test Championship standings after a commanding 93-run victory over South Africa in Lahore, giving Shan Masood’s side the perfect start to their 2025–27 campaign.
The home team’s win, their first of the new cycle, propels them above Bangladesh, England, India and Sri Lanka with a 100 per cent points tally and 12 points. Only Australia, who top the table with three wins from as many matches, sit ahead of Pakistan.
For Shan Masood and his men, the triumph was a statement of intent against the defending champions. “You always have to start well,” Masood said after the win. “It’s a great opportunity playing the team that won the previous Test Championship cycle. We are very excited to be back home, to be playing Test cricket, and to start off with a win. That’s a great start. We’ve closed it off here today, and we’re onto the next one.”
Pakistan’s first innings total of 378 was built on a collective batting effort. Imam-ul-Haq and Salman Agha both fell seven runs short of centuries with identical scores of 93, while Masood added 76 and wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan chipped in with a fluent 75. The middle order’s resilience helped Pakistan recover from a shaky start and set a solid platform for their bowlers.
In reply, South Africa’s Tony de Zorzi produced a composed second Test century, scoring 104 from 171 balls, while opener Ryan Rickelton made 71. Their efforts, however, could not prevent Pakistan from taking control. Left-arm spinner Noman Ali exploited the turning track masterfully, claiming six wickets to restrict the Proteas and secure a 109-run first-innings lead for the hosts.
The visitors fought back through their own spinners. Senuran Muthusamy bagged 5 for 57 and Simon Harmer took 4 for 51 as Pakistan’s second innings folded for 167, setting South Africa a target of 277.
But the chase never found momentum. Noman Ali, continuing his fine form, and Shaheen Shah Afridi each took four wickets to bundle South Africa out for 167, sealing victory late on the fourth day.
The result leaves Pakistan well placed early in the Test Championship race and offers renewed optimism for their home Test season. South Africa, meanwhile, face questions over their batting depth and ability to handle subcontinental conditions.
The second and final Test begins on 20 October in Rawalpindi, where Pakistan will look to complete a clean sweep and consolidate their place among the top contenders for the World Test Championship crown.
