The World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 kicks off today at Lord’s, pitting South Africa’s Proteas against the mighty Australians. For South Africa, it’s their first-ever WTC Final, a chance to shed the “choker” tag that has haunted them in big tournaments. Australia, the defending champions, aim to cement their legacy. Indian fans, still stinging from missing the final, are glued to this epic clash, with X buzzing: “Proteas vs. Aussies at Lord’s—cricket doesn’t get bigger!”
South Africa’s Bold Picks
South Africa’s team selection raised eyebrows. They brought back pacer Lungi Ngidi over Dane Paterson and kept Wiaan Mulder at No. 3, banking on his all-round skills. Captain Temba Bavuma, leading a spirited side, is on a mission. “We’re here to win, not just compete,” he said. With Kagiso Rabada’s fiery pace and Keshav Maharaj’s spin, the Proteas are ready to challenge.
Australia’s Risky Shuffle
Australia, led by Pat Cummins, made a bold move by reshuffling their top order, with Travis Head opening and Steve Smith at No. 4. Some call it a gamble, especially against South Africa’s pace attack. Their line-up, packed with stars like Marnus Labuschagne and Nathan Lyon, is formidable, but ageing batsmen face a stern test. Yet, their experience at Lord’s makes them favorites.
Stuart Broad’s X-Factor
South Africa’s secret weapon? English legend Stuart Broad, their bowling consultant. His know-how of Lord’s conditions could tilt the scales. “Broad’s tips on swing will be gold for Rabada and Ngidi,” a Joburg coach told me. Australia, meanwhile, relies on Cummins and Mitchell Starc to dominate. Indian fans on X are split: “Broad’s genius might give SA the edge!” one wrote, while another said, “Australia’s too strong.”
Why This Matters to India
Though India missed the final after a tough home series, the WTC Final is a hot topic here. Fans see South Africa, who beat Sri Lanka to qualify, as underdogs who could upset Australia, much like India did in 2020-21. With India co-hosting the 2026 T20 World Cup, this Test battle is a reminder of cricket’s global stakes.
The Choker Tag vs. Legacy
South Africa’s history of faltering in big moments looms large. A victory could end decades of heartbreak, especially after their T20 World Cup loss last year. Australia, chasing back-to-back WTC titles, want to prove their dominance.
What to Expect
Lord’s, known for its swinging conditions, will test both sides. South Africa’s pace trio—Rabada, Ngidi, and Anrich Nortje—could exploit the pitch, while Australia’s Lyon might spin a web. Rain could play spoilsport, but five days of intense cricket await. Indian fans, watching from afar, are rooting for a thriller.
The Final Word
As the Proteas take on the Aussies, the world watches a clash of grit versus glory. Can South Africa’s fire topple Australia’s might? With Bavuma’s determination and Broad’s brains, the Proteas have a real shot. For Indian fans, it’s a chance to enjoy pure Test drama—and maybe dream of a 2027 comeback.
Last Updated on: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 2:24 pm by Hemang Warudkar | Published by: Hemang Warudkar on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 2:24 pm | News Categories: Sports, Trending
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