Table of Contents
After a forgettable outing on Day 1, South African star pacer Lungi Ngidi bounced back in emphatic fashion on Day 2 of World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia. He was nearly unplayable during a devastating spell in the evening session that saw him remove three key Australian batters, including the in-form Beau Webster and stalwart Steve Smith.
Ngidi’s second wicket of the day—a fiery delivery that dismissed Webster—triggered a late-order collapse for the Aussies, who crumbled to 144/8 by stumps. The South African quick bowled with rhythm, control, and aggression, troubling the batters with seam movement and subtle variations. His fiery burst ensured that Australia’s first-innings lead didn’t balloon out of control, keeping the match on a knife’s edge.
Lungi Ngidi names best wicket of his Test career
Among the three wickets, the one that gave Ngidi the greatest satisfaction was the prized dismissal of Smith. The Australian veteran was trapped plumb in front for just 13, giving South Africa a massive breakthrough at a crucial juncture. Speaking to ICC Digital after the day’s play, Ngidi didn’t hold back in describing the significance of that moment.
“I think because of the stage that we’re playing on, that’s probably the best wicket I could’ve gotten. Having struggled a bit in the first innings and then to be able to get that wicket, at that stage, it probably ranks very high up there for me. I can’t put into words how I felt about taking that wicket. Such a relief,” said Ngidi.
Also READ: Here’s why South Africa and Australian players are wearing black armbands on Day 3 of WTC 2025 Final
Match on a knife’s edge as Day 3 begins
Speaking about Day 3, the WTC final is finely balanced. Australia hold a 250-run lead with just one wicket in hand, and South Africa will be eager to wrap up the innings soon and set themselves a manageable target. With the pitch beginning to show signs of variable bounce and the pressure mounting, the final promises to deliver more drama in the days ahead.
Also READ: David Bedingham opens up on handling-the-ball controversy during Day 2 of SA vs AUS WTC 2025 Final
