Georgetown: In a pivotal match for World Test Championship points, South Africa secured a narrow 40-run win over West Indies, marking a significant series victory that propelled them up the standings. The match, which concluded on its third day, was highlighted by strong performances from South African bowlers Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada, each taking key wickets to clinch the series.

According to International Cricket Council, South Africa’s win in the second Test at Guyana has improved their position in the World Test Championship 2023-25, moving them from seventh to fifth place. This victory, which also represents their tenth consecutive series win against West Indies, saw Maharaj become South Africa’s most prolific Test spinner, capturing a total of 171 wickets to date.

The contest began with South Africa resuming at 223/5, but they soon faltered, bowled out for 246 after a dramatic collapse triggered by West Indies’ Jayden Seales, who achieved a career-best 6/41. Despite setting a challenging target of 263, West Indies’ chase was disrupted by strategic bowling from South Africa, particularly Maharaj and Rabada, who dismantled the middle order and closed the game effectively.

This win not only boosts South Africa’s prospects in the Championship but also impacts the standings of other competing teams like Pakistan and England, each moving down a position. West Indies, despite a spirited fight, remains at the bottom of the table. The series victory has instilled confidence in the South African camp, with head coach Shukri Conrad expressing optimism about reaching the WTC final.