• Aiden Markram delivered under pressure for South Africa with stunning hundred on Day 3 of WTC 2025 Final at Lord's.

  • South Africa needed just 69 more runs against Australia to clinch their maiden WTC title.

Fans go wild as Aiden Markram’s sublime ton at Lord’s keeps South Africa on track for a historic WTC 2025 triumph
Fans go wild as Aiden Markram’s sublime century at Lord’s keeps South Africa on track for a historic triumph against Australia in WTC 2025 final (Image source: X)

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The stage was set at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London as Australia and South Africa locked horns for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final on June 11, 2025. Australia, the defending champions, were eyeing a second consecutive title, while South Africa, driven by a hunger to end their long ICC trophy drought, sought history. With a challenging target of 282 set by Australia, Day 3 witnessed a masterclass from South African opener Aiden Markram, whose sublime century sent fans into a frenzy and tilted the contest towards the Proteas.

Aiden Markram’s magnificent hundred at Lord’s in the WTC 2025 Final

Markram’s innings was a blend of poise, timing, and nerves of steel. Walking out with the daunting task of chasing 282 in a high-stakes final, Markram weathered early pressure after the quick loss of Ryan Rickelton. Unfazed, he stitched a crucial partnership with Wiaan Mulder, steadying the ship before taking charge alongside skipper Temba Bavuma.

Markram’s century was brought up in style, flicking Josh Hazlewood for four to reach the three-figure mark off 156 balls, punctuated by 11 exquisite boundaries. The celebration was emotional, helmet off, arms aloft, greeted by raucous applause from the dressing room and a beaming AB de Villiers in the stands. Markram became only the third batter to score a hundred in a WTC final, etching his name into cricketing folklore. His composure against Australia’s relentless pace trio and his ability to rotate strike ensured South Africa’s chase never lost momentum. Fans erupted on social media, hailing Markram’s knock as one of the finest under pressure, with many calling it a turning point in South Africa’s cricketing history.

Also WATCH: Steve Smith walks off with finger injury after dropping Temba Bavuma early on Day 3 at Lord’s | SA vs AUS

Here’s how fans reacted:

South Africa in the driver’s seat against Australia

By the close of Day 3’s third session, South Africa stood at 213/2, needing just 69 more runs to clinch their maiden WTC title. Markram remained unbeaten on 102, while Bavuma, battling through injury, provided steadfast support with a gritty half-century. Their unbroken 140-plus run partnership not only blunted Australia’s attack but also infused belief into the South African camp.

Earlier, Australia’s second innings resistance was shaped by Mitchell Starc’s fighting 58 not out, but the rest of the lineup faltered against incisive spells from Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, setting South Africa a target that looked imposing on paper. However, Markram’s century has put the Proteas within touching distance of a historic triumph. With eight wickets in hand and momentum firmly on their side, South Africa are now favorites to script an unforgettable victory at Lord’s.

Also READ: WTC 2025 Final: Top 5 highest successful run chases at Lord’s in Tests as South Africa target history vs Australia

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About the Author:
AKASH THAPA
Akash Thapa is a dedicated cricket journalist with three years of experience in the media industry. A BA (JMC) graduate from VIPS, GGSIPU, and a postgraduate in MAJMC from the University of Lucknow, Akash combines his academic credentials with a deep-rooted passion for cricket.His background as a former junior-level wrestler and cricketer enriches his insightful analysis and commentary on the game. Known for his inventive approach to writing and his commitment to capturing the nuances of cricket, Akash is a true aficionado of the sport.Connect with Akash on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram.