South Africa WTC 2025 – Victory Over Australia

WTC Final – Markram’s Masterclass Sends South Africa to Glory

The South Africa World Test Championship 2025 final ended in glory as the Proteas defeated Australia by five wickets in a thrilling showdown at Lord’s.

South Africa emerged victorious over Australia at the prestigious World Test Championship Final held at Lord’s, sealing a memorable win by five wickets. The chase of 282 began shakily when captain Temba Bavuma was dismissed for 66, but Aiden Markram’s superb century steadied the ship and sealed the hunt.

Markram delivered a calm and composed innings of 136, falling with just six runs left to reach the target—his efforts cementing the victory.

Temba Bavuma, at the presentation, reflected on the intense atmosphere:
“It felt like home with the unbelievable support. We believed in ourselves even when there were doubts, and now this moment is for everyone back in South Africa. It’ll take a few days to truly sink in.”

During Day 3, South Africa finished at 213/2, seemingly on track. But the early dismissal of Bavuma on Day 4, despite his earlier hamstring injury, brought tension back into the game.

Markram’s performance was a stunning turnaround after a first-innings failure. Marco Jansen called it “un-fricking-believable.” Markram himself said:

“Getting a duck in the first innings and then a ton in the second is bizarre. But sometimes luck turns in your favor. Playing at Lord’s and delivering in front of our fans made it unforgettable. You ride the pressure and seize scoring opportunities—these are the innings people talk about.”

The match saw another twist when Tristan Stubbs fell for 8, with the score at 241/4—but South Africa closed it out professionally.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada summed it up:

“I can’t put it into words. We planned well all year. Some said we didn’t play top teams—but beating Australia in the final proves otherwise. The last four days felt like a home Test.”

Match Recap

South Africa 2nd innings: Steady chase led by Bavuma (66) and Markram (136) secured a historic win.
Australia 1st innings: 212 all out — Beau Webster (72) and Steve Smith (66) starred; Rabada (5 wickets), Jansen (3).

South Africa 1st innings: 138 all out — David Bedingham top-scored with 45; Bavuma 36.

Australia 2nd innings: Collapsed to 73/7 before Alex Carey (43) and Mitchell Starc (58) added runs. The total wasn’t enough.

For a full breakdown of South Africa’s journey to the WTC Final, visit our analysis page.