In a thrilling climax at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground on June 14, 2025, South Africa etched their name into cricket history by clinching the World Test Championship with a remarkable five-wicket victory over defending champions Australia. This victory marks South Africa's first major ICC senior men's tournament trophy since 1998, ending a 27-year wait filled with heartbreaks and near misses across generations.
The final day unfolded as a rollercoaster of tension, skill, and determination. South Africa resumed their second innings on 213-2, needing 69 runs to claim the coveted mace. Despite being underdogs and having been dismissed for just 138 in the first innings, the Proteas showcased resilience and grit against a formidable Australian bowling attack.
Captain Temba Bavuma, battling a hamstring injury sustained the previous day, played a valiant innings of 66 runs before succumbing early on the fourth day to Pat Cummins. Bavuma’s leadership was pivotal throughout the campaign and this final, as he defied pain and led from the front. “We’ve been knocking at the door, being relentless - getting ourselves into position where we can be in finals,” Bavuma reflected. “The sun is on us at the moment. That responsibility, we’ve been carrying it. And hopefully this is one of many.”
Australia’s Pat Cummins, who dismissed Bavuma, acknowledged the challenge presented by the South African team. “Things can change pretty quickly, but unfortunately it was a bridge too far,” he said. “We had a decent first innings lead but didn’t quite bat the opposition out of the game. South Africa didn’t give us a chance in the fourth innings.” Cummins also highlighted concerns about Australia’s batting lineup despite their strong performances over the previous two years.
The star of the match was undoubtedly opener Aiden Markram, whose commanding 136-run innings was the cornerstone of South Africa’s victory. Markram’s knock was not only the highest individual score in the match but also the difference-maker in a contest dominated largely by bowlers. His innings was characterized by patience, composure, and timely aggression, including a memorable 147-run partnership with Bavuma for the third wicket. Markram humbly credited a bit of luck, saying, “Weird how things work out - you get a duck in the first innings, and you come into the second innings with quite a few concerns. Ultimately you need a bit of luck and spend some time in the middle and find some runs and I’m just really grateful it worked out nicely.”
Markram’s dismissal with just six runs remaining did little to dampen spirits, as Kyle Verreynne stepped in to hit the winning runs. Verreynne, who admitted to being “probably the most nervous I’ve ever been,” carved a drive through the off side to seal the victory. A close call on a potential caught-behind was overturned as Australia had exhausted all three of their reviews, allowing Verreynne to remain at the crease and finish the game.
Kagiso Rabada was instrumental with the ball, taking nine wickets across both innings (5-51 and 4-59), earning praise even from Australian off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who said, “You’ve sometimes got to take your hat off and say ‘well played’.” Rabada himself was proud and defiant, responding to critics who questioned the quality of South Africa’s opposition by stating, “We came here and we played the best team. Australia were magnificent all season and we had to be on our A game to beat them.”
The victory was deeply emotional for the South African team and fans alike, symbolizing not just a cricketing triumph but a historic moment of unity and pride for a nation long haunted by sporting near-misses and social challenges. Spinner Keshav Maharaj, visibly moved, dedicated the win to a “proud country,” emphasizing the strength found in diversity. “We want to be a good team of good people, because good things happen to good people,” Maharaj said. “Diversity is our strength, and to see it come to fruition over a number of years is much more meaningful.”
Marco Jansen, reflecting the nerves felt by the team, described the experience as “un-freaking-believable” and said, “Dreams are meant to be achieved and we’re going to celebrate really, really well.” The celebrations spilled onto the field and into the stands, with jubilant fans and players sharing the moment of glory at cricket’s most hallowed venue.
South Africa’s journey to the title was marked by resilience against the odds. They had been criticized for an allegedly easier road to the final, having not faced Australia or England in the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle. Yet, the Proteas won eight straight Tests during this period, half of them away from home, their second-longest winning streak in history. Their run chase of 282 runs was the joint second-highest successful chase in Test cricket at Lord’s, surpassed only by West Indies' 342 in 1984.
The match itself was a nail-biter, with Australia applying intense pressure through their skilled bowling unit, including Mitchell Starc’s crucial wickets and relentless pace. Starc’s dismissal of Tristan Stubbs was a key moment when 41 runs were still required, injecting hope for Australia. However, South Africa’s composure, particularly from Markram and Bedingham, ensured the scoreboard kept ticking.
The significance of the win extends beyond cricket. Temba Bavuma, South Africa’s Black African captain, has become a symbol of progress and inspiration, much like Siya Kolisi’s role in rugby. Bavuma’s leadership and performance have resonated deeply, with many recognizing the historic and social importance of this achievement.
The post-match presentations were filled with emotion. Bavuma lifted the World Test Championship mace to roaring cheers, symbolizing the end of decades of frustration and the dawn of a new era. The team celebrated with their families on the Lord’s outfield, sharing the joy of a hard-fought and well-deserved victory.
Looking ahead, Australia faces a period of reflection and potential change. Cummins has acknowledged the need for a “fresh start,” particularly with the batting lineup under scrutiny. South Africa, meanwhile, will savor this moment but also prepare to build on it, hoping this trophy is the first of many.
This historic win at Lord’s not only crowns South Africa as World Test Champions but also rewrites a narrative of resilience, unity, and excellence. The Proteas have truly shaken off the “chokers” tag, etching their name in the annals of cricket history and inspiring a nation to dream big.
