South Africa vs Pakistan Prediction, 2nd Test Today Match Preview: Can SA Maintain Their Momentum?

The 2nd Test between South Africa and Pakistan will be held from January 3 to 7, 2025, at the iconic Newlands Stadium in Cape Town. The match will start at 10:30 AM local time (SAST) each day, offering a full day of competitive Test cricket under favorable weather conditions. For viewers in India, the match will begin at 3:00 PM IST.

Weather Report:

The weather in Cape Town is expected to be clear with no significant rain forecast, ensuring uninterrupted play. The mild temperatures and breezy conditions will favor both bowlers and batters.

South Africa vs Pakistan Analysis of Recent Performances:

South Africa:

In the 1st Test against Sri Lanka on November 27, 2024, South Africa demonstrated their dominance with a resounding victory by 233 runs. Their bowlers dismantled Sri Lanka’s batting line-up, while the batters provided a commanding total, showcasing a well-rounded and confident performance that highlights their strength leading into future matches.

Pakistan:

In the 2nd Test against England on October 15, 2024, Pakistan secured a commanding 152-run victory. This performance highlighted Pakistan's balanced approach, with both their batters setting a challenging target and their bowlers dismantling England's batting lineup effectively. Such a comprehensive win underscores Pakistan's capability to dominate in crucial matches.

South Africa vs Pakistan Playing XI

South Africa Playing XI:

Captain: Aiden Markram

Aiden Markram, Dean Elgar, David Bedingham, Temba Bavuma (c), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Anrich Nortje, Senuran Muthusamy.

Pakistan Playing XI:

Captain: Babar Azam

Abdullah Shafique, Imam-ul-Haq, Babar Azam (c), Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Agha, Noman Ali, Shaheen Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, Hasan Ali, Naseem Shah.

South Africa vs Pakistan Head-to-Head:

In the last five Test matches between South Africa and Pakistan, South Africa has won three encounters, showcasing their dominance at home, while Pakistan has secured two victories, primarily on their home soil. The most recent match in December 2024 saw South Africa narrowly edge Pakistan by 2 wickets, indicating a competitive rivalry heading into the 2nd Test at Cape Town.

South Africa vs Pakistan Match Prediction - Who will win?

South Africa vs Pakistan Best Batsman Prediction:

Babar Azam (Pakistan): His impeccable form and ability to anchor innings make him the batter to watch.

South Africa vs Pakistan Best Bowler Prediction:

Kagiso Rabada (South Africa): With his pace and accuracy, he is poised to exploit the Cape Town pitch effectively.

Opening Partnership Prediction:

South Africa’s openers are likely to post a 50+ partnership, given the strong form of Aiden Markram and Dean Elgar.

Scenario 1:

If South Africa bats first:

Predicted total: 400+ in the first innings.

Result: South Africa to win by 150+ runs.

Scenario 2:

If Pakistan bats first:

Predicted total: 300–350 in the first innings.

Result: South Africa to chase the target with 5 wickets in hand.

South Africa vs Pakistan Today Match Winning Percentage Prediction:

South Africa is predicted to win (65%), leveraging their recent dominant form and home advantage.