On June 14, 2025, South Africa etched their name into cricketing history by defeating Australia by five wickets in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Chasing a target of 282, the Proteas, led by a magnificent 136 from Aiden Markram and a gritty 66 from captain Temba Bavuma, ended a 27-year wait for an ICC title, their first since the 1998 Champions Trophy. The match, a thrilling culmination of two years of Test cricket, showcased South Africa’s resilience and Australia’s fighting spirit, with the latter’s bowlers, particularly Mitchell Starc, pushing the game to the wire.
Match Context
The WTC Final 2025, held from June 11 to June 14, 2025, pitted South Africa, who topped the WTC standings with a 69.44% points percentage, against defending champions Australia (67.54%). Australia, batting first, were bowled out for 212, with Kagiso Rabada’s 5/51 proving decisive. South Africa responded with 138, conceding a 74-run lead.
Australia’s second innings yielded 207, setting a challenging target of 282. By the end of Day 3, South Africa were strongly placed at 213/2, needing 69 runs with Aiden Markram (102*) and Temba Bavuma (65*) at the crease.
South Africa’s Second Innings: Day 4
South Africa resumed Day 4 under cloudy skies, with the Lord’s crowd buzzing in anticipation. Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma, having forged a 143-run partnership—the third-highest fourth-innings stand by a visiting pair at Lord’s—were tasked with guiding the Proteas to victory. Markram, already on his first ICC final century, played with elegance and determination, while Bavuma, despite a hamstring strain, showed remarkable grit.
The innings faced an early setback when Pat Cummins dismissed Temba Bavuma for 66 off 134 balls, caught behind off a probing delivery. The score was 217/3, with 65 runs still needed. Tristan Stubbs joined Markram, adopting a cautious approach, scoring 8 off 43 balls. Their 24-run partnership steadied the innings, but Mitchell Starc struck, castling Stubbs at 241/4.
David Bedingham, with a composed 21 off 49 balls, partnered Markram to take the score to 276/5. Markram, who had added 34 runs to his overnight score, fell for 136, caught at slip off Josh Hazlewood. With only 6 runs needed, Kyle Verreynne (4* off 13) and Bedingham saw South Africa home, with Verreynne’s single sparking wild celebrations.
Australia’s Bowling Performance
Australia’s bowlers fought valiantly to defend 282, with Mitchell Starc leading the charge. Starc’s 3/66 in 14.4 overs included the early dismissal of Ryan Rickelton and the crucial wicket of Tristan Stubbs, bowled by a searing yorker. Pat Cummins (1/59 in 17 overs) accounted for Temba Bavuma, while Josh Hazlewood (1/58 in 19 overs) dismissed Aiden Markram late in the chase.
Nathan Lyon, despite bowling 26 overs for 66 runs, went wicketless, unable to exploit the turning pitch. Beau Webster (0/13 in 5 overs) and Travis Head (0/8 in 2 overs) provided support but couldn’t break through.
Australia’s fielding was hampered by Steve Smith’s absence due to a finger injury, and their decision-making was further compromised by burning all three DRS reviews, mostly unsuccessfully. Despite these challenges, the bowlers maintained pressure, making South Africa work for every run.
Key Moments
- Temba Bavuma’s Dismissal: Cummins’ removal of Bavuma at 217/3 was a potential turning point, but Markram’s composure ensured South Africa stayed on track.
- Aiden Markram’s Century: Markram’s 136, including 14 fours, was a masterclass, ending South Africa’s history of heartbreak in ICC events.
- Tristan Stubbs’ Resilience: Stubbs’ slow 8 off 43 balls frustrated Australia, allowing Markram to keep the scoreboard ticking.
- Final Moments: With 6 runs needed, Verreynne’s single off Starc sealed the victory, sparking emotional celebrations.
Player of the Match
Aiden Markram was rightfully named Player of the Match for his 136, which anchored South Africa’s chase. His innings, blending elegance with grit, was pivotal in securing the historic win. Markram also contributed with the ball, taking 1/5 in both Australian innings, showcasing his all-round value.
Significance of the Victory
South Africa’s triumph is a landmark moment, ending a 27-year ICC title drought. The victory, celebrated wildly by fans on social media and in watch parties across South Africa, marked the second-highest successful chase at Lord’s. The Proteas’ resilience, particularly through Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma’s performances, highlighted their ability to perform under pressure. For Australia, the loss was a bitter pill, but their competitive spirit throughout the WTC cycle earned them respect.
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South Africa’s unit under the leadership of Temba Bavuma has been flawless. We can say that Temba Bavuma has been the unswung hero in the cycle who has battled injuries and even in final he played with an injured hamstring. South Africa’s victory in the WTC Final 2025 is a testament to their skill, determination, and ability to overcome past disappointments.
As the team lifted the WTC mace, tears of joy and relief reflected the magnitude of the achievement. This win will be remembered as a defining moment in South African cricket, inspiring future generations. Australia, despite the defeat, can take pride in their valiant effort, setting the stage for another thrilling WTC cycle.
Also Read: ICC WTC 2023-25: Aiden Markram’s 136 Runs Power South Africa To WTC Triumph