• The South African team received a grand reception at OR Tambo International Airport after their maiden World Test Championship win.

  • The Proteas clinched their first ICC title in 27 years by defeating Australia in the WTC Final.

WATCH: South African team receives warm welcome after they return home with the WTC trophy
South African team receives warm welcome (Image Source: X)

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The South African cricket team returned home to a heartfelt reception at OR Tambo International Airport following their historic win in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against Australia. It was a moment of national pride, as fans gathered early to welcome the team that brought home South Africa’s first-ever Test championship title.

A joyous welcome for the South African team after WTC triumph

Cheers broke out as captain Temba Bavuma emerged from the airport holding the WTC trophy high above his head, a proud expression on his face. His teammates followed close behind, some wrapped in South African flags, others busy recording the joyful scene on their phones. The sight of Bavuma lifting the trophy towards the crowd sparked loud applause, emotional chants of celebration, singing and noises of musical instrumental.

The team took a few moments to line up for a photoshoot, proudly wearing their medals around their necks. Support staffs were even seen playfully hugging each other, celebrating the joyous occasion with laughter and smiles. After years of heartbreak in global tournaments, this win has given South African cricket a fresh, proud chapter. The reception at the airport was more than a welcome, it was a tribute to the determination and grit the team showed throughout their WTC journey.

Also READ: Fans go gaga as South Africa lift first-ever WTC title with Aiden Markram’s epic 136 against Australia at Lord’s

Here’s the video:

Proteas scripts history under the leadership of Temba Bavuma

After a wait of 27 long years, South Africa finally got their hands on a prestigious ICC title by defeating defending champions Australia in a thrilling contest at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma led a remarkable campaign in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–25 cycle. After a slow start, South Africa bounced back strongly and eventually finished at the top of the points table.

In the final, the Proteas stunned the cricketing world with a brilliant run chase in the fourth innings. Opening batter Aiden Markram scored a scintillating century against a formidable Australian bowling attack, anchoring the chase with class and composure. With the WTC mace in their hands and confidence running high, South Africa will now shift focus to defending their title. Their first assignment in the new WTC cycle will be against the mighty Indian team in November later this year.

Also WATCH: WTC Final 2025 – Aiden Markram’s match-winning knock earns standing ovation from Lord’s crowd

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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.