South Africa Aims for World Test Championship Final

The ICC has released the fixtures for the Champions Trophy, scheduled from February 19 to March 9, 2024, in Pakistan and the UAE, marking its return after a seven-year hiatus. Defending champions Pakistan will host the tournament alongside the UAE, which will serve as a neutral venue for matches involving India. The tournament features eight teams divided into two groups; Group A consists of Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, and Pakistan, while Group B includes Afghanistan, Australia, England, and South Africa. Meanwhile, South Africa is aiming to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final next June, needing at least one win in their two-Test series against Pakistan starting December 26 in Pretoria. Having recently won five consecutive Tests, South Africa has climbed to the top of the WTC standings, while Pakistan struggles with a history of losses in South Africa and a coaching change. Both teams are set to battle in a series where South Africa holds the advantage with a strong pace attack against a Pakistan side that recently excelled in ODIs but lacks depth in bowling.