In a monumental moment for South African cricket, the Proteas claimed their first-ever ICC trophy by defeating defending champions Australia by five wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at Lord’s, London. Chasing a challenging target of 282 runs, South Africa scripted a stunning turnaround, anchored by a resolute century from Aiden Markram and gritty leadership by captain Temba Bavuma. This victory not only ended their long ICC title drought but also marked a cultural and sporting milestone for the nation.
Why in the news?
South Africa have beaten the mighty Australian in the final match of the ICC World Test Championship 2025 at Lord’s, United Kingdom. Its is the long awaited title for South Africa after ending the drought of the 27 years.
Match Highlights
- In the final match toss won by the South Africa captain Temba Bavuma and opted to field first. In the first innings of the Australia they have scored the 212 in which Steve Smith and Beau Webster have scored the Half century and Kagiso rabada have claimed the 5 wickets in that inning.
- When the South Africa have came to bat they collapsed like house of cards and they lost their last 6 wickets in the span of just 44 runs and Captain of Australia have claimed 6 wickets in that innings and Australia got the 74 run lead.
- 2nd Innings of Australia they did not start very well and South Africa have bounced back in the bowling after batting failure but the last 4 wicket partnership have led the Australian total to 207 and their lead up to 287.
- When the South Africa came to chase the target Aiden Markram scored wonderful century and scored 136 runs and captain Bavuma also contributed with half century. And Verreynne finished the match for south Africa.
Score
- 1st Innings (Australia): 212
- 1st Innings (South Africa): 138
- 2nd Innings (Australia): 207
- 2nd Innings (South Africa): 282-5
Man of the Match
- Aiden Markram has been awarded with the player of the match for his 4th inning century which helped the team to win title
Historical Context
- South Africa has been considered “chokers” in major tournaments, having failed to reach an ICC final since 1998.
- Their return to glory comes after consistent performance — they won 8 Tests in a row leading into the final.
Social & Political Symbolism
- First major global win under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, a trailblazer as South Africa’s first full-time Black Test captain.
- A win that united the nation, symbolizing endurance, hope, and progression amid past adversities.
Previous Winners WTC
- 2021: New Zealand
- 2023: Australia
- 2025: South Africa
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