Follow UsHistory was scripted in Bulawayo today (July 8) as South Africa became only the third team ever, and the first team in 17 years, to win 10 Test matches on the bounce. They achieved the rare feat thanks to a thumping innings victory (236 runs) over Zimbabwe.
Prior to today, only Australia (1999-2001, 2006-2008) and the West Indies (1984) had achieved this rare feat. South Africa have now joined the elite list, having won a staggering 10 Tests in a row, which is also their longest winning streak in the format.
16 - Australia (1999-2001)
16 - Australia (2006-2008)
11 - West Indies (1984)
10 - South Africa (2024-2025*)
The historic run started with a 40-run victory over the West Indies in Providence in August last year. They were not even deemed contenders for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at that point, but they won seven Tests in a row to book their place in the WTC Final at Lord’s.
At Lord’s, the Proteas won their first major title of this century by stunning defending champions Australia by 5 wickets to make it 8 wins on the bounce. The 9th and 10th wins have come against Zimbabwe, both comprehensive victories.
What’s remarkable is that the team has been captained by four different individuals across these 10 Tests: Temba Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Keshav Maharaj and now Wiaan Mulder.
These two Tests against Zimbabwe, however, are not part of the 2025-27 WTC cycle.