Historic triumph at Lord's: South Africa breaks 27-year ICC title drought in epic comeback against Australia
PTC Web Desk: After 27 years of heartbreak, near-misses, and painful knockouts, South Africa have finally ended their ICC title drought—claiming a historic win in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against Australia at Lord’s. In a match that had everything—drama, nerves, and resilience—the Proteas chased down a formidable 282-run target in red-ball cricket’s most sacred venue, winning by five wickets.
This victory not only sealed South Africa’s first-ever ICC title since 1998 but also marked the redemption of a cricketing nation haunted by its past in global tournaments. The tears that rolled down the faces of Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma symbolised the emotional weight of decades finally lifted.
They’ve done it! South Africa are WTC Champions! ????????????
27 years of waiting ends in glory ????❤
A moment for the ages and for every fan who never stopped believing#SouthAfrica #WTCFinal pic.twitter.com/gShxDKkA3n — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 14, 2025
Markram’s masterclass and Bavuma’s bravery
Aiden Markram was the pillar of South Africa’s pursuit, finishing with an unbeaten 134 across two grinding days. His gritty partnership with captain Temba Bavuma, who battled through a hamstring injury and added a crucial 143-run stand, set the tone on a pitch that had seen 28 wickets fall in just two days.
Needing 69 runs on Day 4, Markram held his nerve even after Pat Cummins removed Bavuma early. Australia fought hard, bringing in Nathan Lyon and tightening the field, but Markram’s restraint and composure helped South Africa chip away at the target.
Stubbs, Bedingham, and Rabada: The Unsung Heroes
While Markram stood tall, valuable contributions came from others. Tristan Stubbs soaked up pressure with a patient 43-ball stay. Earlier, David Bedingham’s 45 in the first innings gave the Proteas something to bowl at after they were dismissed for 138.
The turnaround was sparked by Kagiso Rabada’s fiery spell, claiming five wickets in the second innings to restrict Australia and give South Africa a fighting chance.
A moment for the ages
The Lord’s crowd erupted as Kyle Verreynne hit the winning runs, completing one of the greatest chases in modern Test history. Emotions ran high—former players cried in the stands, and Keshav Maharaj described the win as “more than tears can express.”
The significance of South Africa’s first Black Test captain, Bavuma, lifting the trophy added historical weight to the occasion—10 years after the ‘quota debate’ overshadowed the 2015 World Cup.
- PTC NEWS
