South Africa vs Pakistan: Why PAK's Lahore Test Win Is Bad News for the Indian Cricket Team

Pakistan under Shaan Masood defeated South Africa by 93 runs in the Lahore Test. The match ended inside four days. Resuming on 51/2 while chasing 277, South Africa were bundled out for 183. Noman Ali, who took 6/112 in the first innings, finished with 4/79. Shaheen Afridi led the way with 4/33. Pakistan lead the two-match series 1-0.

While this is a win to celebrate in Pakistan, the news is not good for those across the border in India. Why? Because of the WTC points table. Pakistan’s win has taken them to second place while India have fallen to fourth position.

© X/ICC

Pakistan now have 12 points from one game and a PCT of 100. Meanwhile India have 52 points from seven matches and a PCT of 61.90. Pakistan have a chance to improve their position when they take on South Africa in the second Test. South Africa have slipped to seventh place.

India, who just defeated West Indies 2-0, shall take on South Africa in a two-match Test series that begins on November 14. Australia currently top the table while Sri Lanka are third.

© X/ICC

Noman Ali was completely unplayable and while South Africa did recover from 55/4, they lost their last six wickets for 55 runs as well. Earlier, Pakistan slipped from 150/4 to 167. Add to that their 109-run first innings lead, South Africa were behind by 276. Hence the 277 target.

Earlier, South Africa made 269 in reply to Pakistan’s 378. Today also happens to be Babar Azam’s 31st birthday and while it was not a game to remember personally, at least he got a present on the special day in the form of a Pakistan victory.