South Africa became the first team to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final of the 2023-25 cycle as they overcame Pakistan by two wickets in the first Test at Centurion on Sunday. After crumbling to 99 for eight in a 148-run chase after Pakistan seamer Mohammad Abbas’ six-wicket burst, South Africa held their nerve with an unbeaten 50-run partnership for the ninth wicket between Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. The win elevated the Proteas to 88 points from 11 games this cycle, boosting their points percentage (PCT) to 66.67 ahead of Australia (58.89) and India (55.89), who are currently locked 1-1 in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With South Africa booking the ticket to the final, to be held at Lord’s between June 11-15 next year, only India and Australia remain in contention to book the other vacant spot. South Africa are the fourth team to make the WTC final after India (2021 and 2023), defending champions Australia (2023) and inaugural winners New Zealand (2021). South Africa’s WTC 2023-25 campaign began with a 1-1 home …