WTC 2025 Final: South Africa Takes Charge Against Australia

WTC Final 2025: South Africa vs Australia

WTC Final 2025: The final match of the World Test Championship 2025 is currently underway between South Africa and Australia. The third day of the match, which began on June 11, has concluded with South Africa taking the lead. The South African batsmen showcased exceptional performance on the third day, with Aiden Markram and captain Temba Bavuma stealing the spotlight. In contrast, the Australian bowlers appeared to be underwhelming.

Australia's Innings Struggles

Australia's Batting Falls Short

In their innings, Steve Smith (66) and Beau Webster (72) contributed with half-centuries, helping Australia reach a total of 212 runs. However, South Africa struggled in their first innings, collapsing for just 138 runs. No South African batsman managed to score a half-century in that innings. The Australian team also failed to impress in their second innings.

In their second innings, Australia managed to score 207 runs. Mitchell Starc played a crucial role, scoring 58 runs off 136 balls. He, along with Josh Hazlewood, formed a record-breaking partnership for the 10th wicket, achieving a half-century partnership that had never been seen before in an ICC final. This historic feat marked a significant moment in cricket history.

Highlights from the Third Day

Third Day Performance

Chasing a target of 282 runs, South Africa delivered an impressive batting display on the third day. Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma formed a century partnership for the third wicket. South Africa faced an early setback, losing Riaan Reckelton for just 9 runs, courtesy of Mitchell Starc. They lost another wicket at 70 runs when Vian Mulder was dismissed. However, Markram and Bavuma's outstanding performance put Australia on the back foot.

As the third day concluded, Markram remained unbeaten with 102 runs off 157 balls, while Bavuma stood firm with 62 runs off 118 balls. After 55.1 overs, South Africa's score was 210/2, needing just 72 runs to secure victory on the fourth day.