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The stage is set at Lord’s for the high voltage affair of World Test Championship (WTC) final 2025 between Australia and South Africa. This match marks a significant moment for South Africa, offering them a chance to clinch their first ICC title since 1998. As the Proteas gear up to face their formidable rivals, Australia, under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, the excitement and anticipation are palpable. Bavuma recognizes the magnitude of the WTC final, acknowledging it as the biggest match of his career.
South Africa’s run in WTC 2023-25 under Temba Bavuma
South Africa’s journey to the WTC final has been nothing short of remarkable. Under the captaincy of Bavuma, the team has displayed resilience and determination, securing crucial victories that propelled them to the top of the WTC standings. Bavuma’s leadership has been exceptional, maintaining an unbeaten record in Test matches as captain, with eight wins and one draw in nine games. This incredible start to his Test captaincy places him alongside legendary figures such as Warwick Armstrong and Lindsay Hassett, who also achieved eight wins in their first nine matches as captain. His leadership was pivotal in South Africa’s clean sweep of Pakistan in a Test series, which helped secure their spot in the ICC World Test Championship final 2025 as the top team with 69.44 percentage points.
South Africa’s chosen eleven for the ultimate Test
South Africa have officially announced their playing XI for the WTC Final 2025, blending experience with youthful exuberance. Bavuma will lead the side, aiming to continue his unbeaten streak as Test captain. Aiden Markram will reinforce the batting order along with Ryan Rickelton, who is known for his aggressive style. Wiaan Mulder will provide balance with his all-round abilities, while Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham add depth to the middle order. Kyle Verrynne is set to take the gloves as the wicket-keeper. The pace attack will be spearheaded by Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Lungi Ngidi, complemented by the spin wizardry of Keshav Maharaj. This carefully selected XI showcases South Africa’s strategic approach, combining batting prowess, bowling strength, and all-round capabilities to take on the Australian challenge at Lord’s.
South Africa’s playing XI for the WTC 2025 final:
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verrynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
Also READ: AUS vs SA: Top 5 key battles to watch out for in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final