South Africa End 27-Year Wait, Clinch Historic WTC Title

AUSTRALIA, 15 JUNE : South Africa created history at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground on Saturday, June 14, 2025, by winning the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025, defeating defending champions Australia by five wickets. This landmark victory marks South Africa’s first major ICC title in 27 years and their maiden triumph in the Test Championship format, igniting joyous celebrations among players and fans alike.
Chasing 269 for victory, the Proteas resumed the fourth day of the final needing just 69 more runs with five wickets in hand. Displaying remarkable composure and grit, the South African lower-middle order held firm and ensured there were no early jitters, guiding their side to a historic win in front of a packed Lord’s crowd.
The chase had been set up by a solid batting effort on Day 3, with key contributions from captain Temba Bavuma and middle-order mainstay Rassie van der Dussen. However, it was the discipline and dominance of the South African bowlers that laid the foundation for this memorable triumph.
Opting to field first after winning the toss, South Africa struck early and never allowed the Australian innings to settle. Leading the charge was pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada, who delivered a fiery spell to claim 5 for 51. He was ably supported by young all-rounder Marco Jansen, who picked up 3 for 49, as Australia were bowled out for 212 in their first innings.
Despite a brief fightback from Steve Smith (66) and Beau Webster (72), Australia couldn’t find the momentum to post a dominant total. In response, South Africa’s top order provided a steady start, and the middle order capitalized to ensure the Proteas stayed on track in their pursuit.
Set a target of 269, South Africa reached 213/2 by stumps on Day 3, placing them on the brink of victory. Though Australia fought back to claim three quick wickets late in the day, it wasn’t enough to prevent what would become the second-highest successful run chase in the 141-year Test history at Lord’s.
On the fourth morning, South Africa held their nerve. Wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne and all-rounder Marco Jansen calmly knocked off the remaining runs to seal the five-wicket win and with it, the coveted WTC mace.
This triumph is particularly significant for South Africa, who have long carried the burden of underachievement in major ICC tournaments despite boasting generations of world-class talent.
Their last major ICC title came in 1998 when they won the inaugural ICC KnockOut Trophy (now known as the Champions Trophy). Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma lauded his team’s resilience and unity. “This victory means everything.
It’s been a long time coming, and we’ve worked incredibly hard for this. To win it here at Lord’s makes it even more special,” he said at the post-match presentation.

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