Usman Khawaja vs Temba Bavuma: Who holds the upper hand in WTC 2025 final?

As fans gear up for a long Test season, the much-awaited World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 is just around the corner. Two of the world’s top sides, Australia and South Africa, are set to lock horns from June 11 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Both sides are stacked with power-packed players capable of challenging any team in the world. Australia, on one hand, had an outstanding WTC cycle, drawing the Ashes in England and defeating India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. As the defending champions, they will be full of confidence as they aim to retain their title.

Meanwhile, South Africa, making their first-ever appearance in a WTC final, will be eager to end their streak of heartbreaks in recent ICC tournaments. With a balanced squad and a renewed focus, the Proteas will look to make history and bring home their maiden WTC title.

Usman Khawaja: Experience and elegance for Australia

The Australian top order batter Usman Khawaja has been the leading run scorer for the side in this WTC cycle. The 38-year-old is widely admired for his calm temperament and classical technique, which make him a dependable presence at the top of the order. His ability to absorb pressure and play long innings has often steadied Australia during tough situations. A fluent timer of the ball, Khawaja prefers to grind down bowlers with solid defense and elegant stroke play.

Khawaja has been a vital cog in Australia’s Test setup between 2023 and 2025. Over this period, the stylish left-hander featured in 19 matches, batting in 37 innings and remaining not out on 3 occasions. He amassed 1,422 runs at an average of 41.82, including two centuries and six fifties. His highest score during this span was a magnificent 232 against Sri Lanka in Galle. He has also got a decent record on the English soil where he averages over 30 with more then 700 runs to his name.

Also READ: Scott Boland vs Josh Hazlewood in England: Who has the edge ahead of the WTC 2025 Final?

Temba Bavuma: A steady leader and key batting anchor for South Africa

Temba Bavuma, the South African skipper and one of the most dependable batters in the squad, brings composure and class to the crease. Renowned for his crisp timing and calm temperament under pressure, Bavuma has often been the anchor for South Africa in challenging situations. As he leads the Proteas into their maiden WTC Final, the spotlight will firmly be on him to deliver with the bat and inspire his team to break their long-standing ICC title drought.

Bavuma has been one of South Africa’s most consistent performers in the WTC cycle 2023–2025. In just 7 matches, he has featured in 11 innings and amassed 609 runs at a remarkable average of 60.90. This consistency at the top order reflects his ability to anchor the innings and deliver under pressure.

Better chance to perform in the WTC 2025 final

Given the statistics and past performances, both openers stand neck and neck in terms of impact and consistency. Khawaja, despite a few fluctuations in form during the WTC cycle, has maintained an impressive overall record. His performances on English soil have been solid, highlighted by a valuable century. Notably, his three appearances at Lord’s have yielded encouraging results, demonstrating his ability to deliver for Australia on cricket’s grandest stages.

Bavuma has been instrumental for the Proteas in the longer format, often guiding his team out of challenging situations with calm and composed batting. His numbers in England are respectable, providing a promising foundation for South Africa. However, with limited experience at the iconic Lord’s ground, Bavuma faces a fresh challenge that could test his adaptability and temperament.

Also READ: South Africa or Australia? Matthew Hayden reveals his pick for WTC 2025 final winner