South Africa have created history by winning their first-ever ICC World Test Championship (2023-25) title, defeating Australia in the final at Lord’s on Saturday. This victory marks South Africa’s first major ICC trophy in 27 years, since lifting the ICC KnockOut Trophy (now known as the Champions Trophy) back in 1998.
Chasing a target of 282 runs, South Africa sealed the win during the first session of the fourth day, reaching 282/5. The foundation of the historic chase was laid by Aiden Markram, who played a magnificent innings of 136 runs, guiding his team to glory.
Resuming at 213/2 on day four, South Africa lost three wickets on their way to the target. Captain Temba Bavuma contributed a vital 66 runs before falling, while Tristan Stubbs managed just 8. Markram, the hero of the day, was dismissed with just 6 runs needed for victory.
Australia, after winning the toss and opting to bat, were bowled out for 212 runs on day one, with Kagiso Rabada starring with figures of 5 wickets. South Africa’s first innings was disappointing, as they were bundled out for 138 runs, with Australian skipper Pat Cummins claiming a brilliant 6-wicket haul.
In their second innings, Australia, starting with a lead of 74 runs, managed 207 runs thanks largely to a fighting 58 from Mitchell Starc, setting South Africa a challenging target of 282. Rabada was once again among the wickets, picking up 4 scalps.
South Africa’s chase got off to a shaky start, losing Ryan Rickelton early for 6. But a crucial 61-run stand between Markram and Wiaan Mulder (27) steadied the innings. From there, Markram’s century and Bavuma’s composed knock ensured South Africa crossed the finish line and lifted the Test mace for the first time.
This triumph ends South Africa’s long wait for an ICC title and adds a significant chapter to their cricketing history. In the previous editions of the World Test Championship, New Zealand were champions in 2021, while Australia lifted the mace in 2023.