The first test match between South Africa and Pakistan takes place at the SuperSport Park Stadium in Centurion, starting on Boxing Day. This encounter is pivotal for both teams, especially as part of the 2023–2025 ICC World Test Championship and we look at the game from a betting angle.
The 2 test series betting currently stands with South Africa as favourites priced at 1.80 to win, with Pakistan as underdogs at 5.50 and the draw trading at 3.00. South Africa are 2.40 to win the series 2-0.
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SOUTH AFRICA
The Proteas have been in impressive form, achieving five consecutive Test victories. Their recent 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka propelled them to the top of the World Test Championship standings, bringing them closer to securing a spot in the final at Lord’s in June 2025.
PAKISTAN
Pakistan’s recent Test performances have been mixed although they are coming off a recent 2-1 home win over England where they lost the 1st test but stormed back to take the series. They are keen to improve their standing in the World Test Championship and still have a mathematical chance of making the final.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
South Africa:
Temba Bavuma: Returning from an elbow injury against Sri Lanka, Bavuma led from the front and was the standout batsman of the series. With his country on the verge of qualifying for the World Test Championship final at Lords his team will need to him to fire in this series.
Kagiso Rabada: As a leading fast bowler, Rabada’s ability to exploit home conditions makes him a significant threat to Pakistan’s batting lineup. If Rabada fires South Africa usually win.
Pakistan:
Shan Masood: Appointed as the Test captain, Masood’s experience and form at the top of the order will be vital for Pakistan’s batting stability.
Naseem Shah: Returning to the Test squad, Shah’s pace and swing could pose challenges for South African batsmen, especially given the bowler friendly conditions expected.
Head-To-Head
The last time Pakistan toured South Africa for a Test series was during the 2018-19 season, where the teams faced off in a three-match Test series. South Africa dominated the series, achieving a 3-0 whitewash, including a 6 wicket win in Centurion.
In 2021 Pakistan beat South Africa 2-0 in a home series.
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BETTING – click here to bet
South Africa 1.75
Draw 4.90
Pakistan 3.45
The draw has shortened from 6.00 due to the amount of rain around Gauteng at the moment but we should get enough play in to get a result.
Pakistan are a serious threat to South Africa as they have a strong pace attack and are coming off a 3-0 whitewash in the ODI Series.
I think South Africa will get the win on the back of a man of the match performance from KG Rabada.
Suggested Bet: South Africa win at 1.75
Suggested Bet: Player of the Match Rabada at 7.00
I mentioned above that Naseem Shah would be critical to Pakistan chances and I am going to back him to get the most wickets for Pakistan in the 1st innings.
Suggested Bet: Shah Top 1st Innings Pakistan Bowler at 1.85
Note: All prices correct at time of writing but subject to change.