• Mitchell Starc's dazzling half-century put Australia on the driving seat in WTC 2025 Final against South Africa.

  • Starc's batting brilliance propelled the Aussies to 207, setting South Africa a stiff target of 282 runs to win the championship.

Fans go wild as Mitchell Starc’s blazing fifty puts Australia in command on Day 3 of WTC 2025 Final against South Africa
Mitchell Starc powers Australia to commanding position in WTC Final (Image Source: X)

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In a Test match packed with twists and turns, Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship 2025 Final saw Mitchell Starc rise as an unlikely hero with the bat. With Australia teetering on the brink at 134/8 in their second innings, Starc’s gritty fifty – a stroke-filled, fearless effort – turned the tide and placed the Pat Cummins-led side back in control against South Africa at Lord’s.

Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood’s stand shifts momentum

What followed after the fall of the eighth wicket was an unforgettable 59-run partnership between Starc and Josh Hazlewood. Not only did they frustrate the South African bowlers, but they also batted out 22.2 overs under improved batting conditions at the Home of Cricket. The pair countered the Proteas’ aggression with patience, precision, and unexpected flair.

Starc, in particular, showcased a rare mix of composure and calculated aggression to remain unbeaten on 58. His well-paced innings featured timely boundaries and clever strike rotation, as he marshalled the lower order with surprising authority.

From collapse to control: Australia recover strongly

Australia’s second innings had started on shaky ground, mirroring their collapse in the first innings. However, the 74-run first-innings lead coupled with Starc’s counterattack propelled the Aussies to 207, setting South Africa a stiff target of 282 runs to win the championship.

This target, while chaseable, is daunting given the pressure of a final and the threat posed by Australia’s quality pace attack under cloudy English skies. Despite the batting conditions improving as the sun broke through, facing the new ball against the likes of Pat Cummins and Hazlewood will test the South African top order to the core.

Also READ: Is it over for South Africa? Fans speculate as Australia’s lead crosses 250 mark on Day 3 of WTC Final 2025

Social media buzzes as Starc wins hearts

Starc’s innings wasn’t just vital from a match context—it sent cricket fans across the world into a frenzy. From tributes to memes, fans erupted in praise for the left-arm quick’s resilience and unexpected heroics with the bat.  The show of appreciation poured in from analysts, former players, and even neutral fans who admired the drama unfolding in the WTC final. It wasn’t just about runs; it was about the intent and fight that typified Australia’s never-say-die attitude.

Here’s how fans reacted:

https://twitter.com/YouBearsssssss/status/1933485539413340650

Also READ: Here’s why South Africa and Australian players are wearing black armbands on Day 3 of WTC 2025 Final

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About the Author:
AKSHAT GAUR
Akshat is the Sr. Content Strategist at CricketTimes.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for detail, Akshat has honed his skills over 6 years, working with various media outlets, publications, and organizations to deliver high-quality content that informs, educates, and entertains audiences. He is just another cricket fan who’s grown up watching the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid. Cricket runs in his veins. Cover drive is his favorite sight, and a ball meeting the middle of the bat is his favorite sound. You can write to him at akshat.gaur@crickettimes.com and follow him on Twitter, Facebook & Linkedin.