On June 13, 2025, Aiden Markram delivered a performance for the ages on Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s, scoring an unbeaten 102 to bring South Africa within touching distance of their first WTC title. Facing a target of 282 against a formidable Australian side, Aiden Markram’s century, paired with an unbeaten 65 from captain Temba Bavuma, has positioned the Proteas at 213 for 2, needing just 69 runs to secure a historic victory.
From Duck to Dominance: Markram’s Redemption
Aiden Markram’s journey in the WTC Final 2025 has been a tale of redemption. In South Africa’s first innings, where they were bowled out for a modest 138, Markram was dismissed for a duck, a moment that could have dented the confidence of any batter. However, the 31-year-old showed remarkable resilience in the second innings. Tasked with chasing 282 to win the title, Markram walked out to open the innings under immense pressure, knowing that a solid start was crucial for South Africa’s hopes.
Markram began cautiously, respecting the quality of Australia’s bowling attack, led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc. As he settled in, his innings transformed into a display of elegance and precision. He found gaps with ease, driving and cutting with authority while maintaining composure against a disciplined Australian attack. His half-century was a milestone, but Markram’s focus remained unwavering as he marched toward his eighth Test century.
The century came in style, with a boundary that sparked celebrations in the South African camp and sent the Lord’s crowd into a frenzy. This knock was not just about personal redemption; it was about setting the foundation for South Africa’s chase. Markram’s ability to bounce back from a first-innings failure underscored his mental fortitude, a quality that has defined his career. His performance was a reminder of why he is considered one of South Africa’s most talented batters, capable of turning the tide in high-stakes encounters.
Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma guide South Africa to the brink of #WTC25 glory 🙌
Look how the day unfolded 👉 https://t.co/pQ7yVByD1d pic.twitter.com/kHI8s8GDg7
— ICC (@ICC) June 13, 2025
South Africa Inches Closer to Historic Win
At the close of Day 3, South Africa stood at 213 for 2, with Markram unbeaten on 102 and captain Temba Bavuma on 65. Their unbroken 143-run partnership for the third wicket has been the cornerstone of South Africa’s dominant position. With only 69 runs needed and eight wickets in hand, the Proteas are firmly in control, poised to make history by winning their first WTC title.
The match situation paints a clear picture of South Africa’s dominance. Australia, batting first, scored 212, followed by South Africa’s 138 in their first innings. Australia’s second innings yielded 207, thanks to a defiant 58 not out from Mitchell Starc, setting South Africa a target of 282. Markram’s century, combined with Bavuma’s resilient knock, has tilted the game heavily in South Africa’s favor. The Australian bowlers, despite their experience, struggled to make inroads on a pitch that offered little assistance as the day progressed.
This potential victory holds immense significance for South African cricket. The Proteas have often been labeled as underachievers in major tournaments, with their last ICC title coming in 1998. A win at Lord’s would not only end that drought but also cement South Africa’s place among the elite in Test cricket. Markram’s century has been the catalyst for this moment, his leadership with the bat inspiring his teammates and galvanizing a nation.
As Day 4 dawns, the cricketing world will watch with bated breath to see if South Africa can complete the chase. With Markram and Bavuma at the crease, the Proteas are in a commanding position to rewrite their cricketing history. Markram’s century has not only redeemed his earlier failure but has also brought South Africa to the verge of a triumph that could define a generation.
Also Read: ICC WTC 2023-25: Aiden Markram’s Century, Temba Bavuma’s Grit Dominate Day 3