• Pat Cummins’ phenomenal spell of 6/28 on Day 2 put Australia in the driving seat at the WTC Final.

  • Cummins reaffirmed his status as one of the elite fast bowlers in world cricket.

WTC 2025 Final: Fans erupt as Pat Cummins’ fiery spell destroys South African batting on Day 2 of the WTC Final
Pat Cummins (Image Source: X)

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Pat Cummins produced a match-defining bowling performance on the second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, turning the tide in Australia’s favor against South Africa. The Australian captain led from the front with the ball, showcasing his trademark control and pace on a tough pitch.

Australian skipper Pat Cummins’ fiery spell tears apart South Africa on Day 2

On the second day, as South Africa tried to fight back after a poor start, Cummins made sure Australia stayed on top with a brilliant 6-wicket haul for just 28 runs. He started with a few quiet overs but quickly found his rhythm and took control of the game. Cummins bowled with great accuracy and pace, breaking through South Africa’s batting lineup and stopping their progress. His efforts helped Australia bowl them out for just 138 runs, giving his team a strong lead of 74. It was a top-class performance that put Australia in a strong position in the WTC Final.

His wickets included Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma and the stronger-looking David Bedingham — the only South African batters who showed some resistance. With this performance, Cummins joined an elite group, becoming only bowler to take a six-wicket haul in a WTC Final.

Also WATCH: Airborne Marnus Labuschagne plucks a blinder to dismiss Temba Bavuma during SA vs AUS Day 2 clash

Cummins puts Australia on the driving seat at Lord’s

Eyeing a successful defense of their WTC title, Australia had a shaky start to the final. Under cloudy skies on Day 1, their top order collapsed early, putting them on the back foot. However, solid half-centuries from Steve Smith and Beau Webster steadied the innings, Meanwhile, some crucial runs from wicketkeeper Alex Carey down the order, helped Australia cross the 200-run mark.

Despite a brilliant bowling display from Kagiso Rabada, South Africa failed to respond with the bat. Poor shot selection and footwork led to their downfall against a disciplined Australian attack. Post Lunch on Day 2, they lost their last five wickets for just 15 runs, collapsing under pressure at a crucial stage. Trailing by 74 runs, the Proteas now face an uphill battle and will need a strong all-round effort to get back into the match.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also READ: Steve Smith reacts to South Africa’s costly DRS miss involving Beau Webster on Day 1 of WTC 2025 Final

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About the Author:
VARUN VERMA
Varun Verma is a dedicated cricket enthusiast with a flair for storytelling and in-depth analysis. Combining a deep knowledge of the sport with a talent for engaging content creation, he brings the drama and thrill of the game to life for fans around the world. Drawing inspiration from the grit and passion of players like Ben Stokes, Varun aspires to one day experience the electrifying atmosphere of a Test match at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. He can be reached at varun.verma@crickettimes.com and followed on LinkedIn and X.