WTC Final 2025: South Africa end 27-Year wait with glorious win over Australia

In a moment that will be etched in South African cricket history, the Proteas lifted their first ICC Men’s senior title in 27 years with a commanding five-wicket win over Australia in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s on Saturday.

Needing just 69 runs on the fourth morning to seal the deal, South Africa chased down the target with poise and precision, led by a majestic 136-run knock from opener Aiden Markram, who was rightfully crowned Player of the Match.

Markram Anchors as Proteas Hold Nerve

Resuming Day 4 at 140/3, South Africa faced a few tense moments early on. Captain Temba Bavuma (66) fell to a fiery Pat Cummins in just the third over of the day. Then, with 41 runs still needed, Mitchell Starc broke through Tristan Stubbs’ defence.

But the calm in the storm was Markram. Batting with steely resolve, he blunted Australia’s experienced pace attack and punished every loose delivery. His eventual dismissal—caught off Josh Hazlewood with only six runs to win—allowed him a hero’s ovation from the Lord’s crowd.

Rabada's Ruthless Spell Sets Foundation

While Markram’s knock was the headline, the foundation of this victory was laid by Kagiso Rabada’s fiery pace, who bagged nine wickets across both innings. His relentless aggression ensured Australia were never able to post a commanding total, keeping the Proteas firmly in control.

Sweet Redemption and a Long-Awaited Crown

Just a year ago, heartbreak struck South Africa as they narrowly lost to India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Final. But on this glorious English morning at the Home of Cricket, redemption was complete. This time, they stood tall—champions of the ultimate test format.

A Win for the Ages

This landmark triumph not only ends a decades-long drought but also announces South Africa’s return as a force in world cricket. From Markram’s brilliance to Rabada’s fire, it was a team effort that captured the imagination and respect of the cricketing world.