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South Africa’s cricketing history welcomed a golden chapter on June 14, 2025, as the Proteas lifted the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) mace by defeating Australia in a thrilling final at Lord’s. The six-wicket win not only marked a remarkable end to the 2023–25 cycle but also broke the nation’s 27-year drought for an ICC trophy. For a country that has long carried the burden of heartbreaks and missed opportunities in global events, this win was more than just a title — it was redemption.
Amidst the national celebration, legendary cricketer AB de Villiers took to social media to share an emotional note, praising the team’s performance, particularly highlighting the contributions of skipper Temba Bavuma and centurion Aiden Markram. His message struck a personal chord, reflecting both national pride and the joy of sharing the moment with his young sons.
A defining moment in South African cricket history
Notably, South Africa’s journey to the WTC 2025 title wasn’t just about a dominant final — it was about resilience over two years of consistent Test cricket. By overcoming the defending champions Australia in the summit clash, the Proteas finally shed the dreaded “chokers” tag that haunted them in previous ICC tournaments.
Markram led the way in the final with a sublime match-winning century, anchoring the chase under pressure. Bavuma’s leadership was calm yet fierce, guiding the team with a mix of grit and tactical sharpness. The victory, set against the iconic backdrop of Lord’s, evoked memories of South Africa’s rise in the late 1990s — only this time, they crossed the final hurdle.
AB de Villiers’ tribute to the WTC Champions
Reacting to the historic victory, former Proteas captain De Villiers posted a touching message on X (formerly Twitter), applauding the team’s composure and brilliance on the biggest stage.
“Congratulations @ProteasMenCSA Fantastic win and so well played! Hats off to Markram for that match winning century, and Temba for leading with such ice and fire all through” wrote de Villiers.
He went on to describe the personal joy of watching the WTC Final unfold, noting how the slow drama of Test cricket made the experience even more special.
“What an incredible experience of watching this beautiful format of the game! The built up drama, the slow anticipation, and the sweet victory to end it all were moments to savour.. and to experience that with my two boys thrilled and on their toes — couldn’t have imagined it better than this,” added De Villiers.
Congratulations @ProteasMenCSA
Fantastic win and so well played! Hats off to Markram for that match winning century, and Temba for leading with such ice and fire all through👏🏻🏆What an incredible experience of watching this beautiful format of the game! The built up drama,… pic.twitter.com/NVBR3apmKo
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) June 14, 2025
Also WATCH: WTC Final 2025 – Aiden Markram’s match-winning knock earns standing ovation from Lord’s crowd
