In one of the most iconic moments in cricketing history, South Africa has won the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025, ending a 27-year-long drought for an ICC trophy. The Proteas defeated Australia by 5 wickets at the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground, chasing down a challenging 282-run target in style and rewriting their legacy in the annals of world cricket.
The Final That Made History
South Africa’s last ICC title came in 1998 with the Champions Trophy (then known as the KnockOut Trophy). Since then, heartbreaks have piled up — quarter-final exits, semi-final slip-ups, and the long-standing “chokers” label. But this time, they broke the curse.
With a gritty 136-run masterclass by Aiden Markram, sharp pace bowling by Kagiso Rabada, and composed leadership, South Africa proved that they’re no longer just contenders — they’re champions.
Match Summary – ICC WTC Final 2025
- Venue: Lord’s Cricket Ground, London
- Teams: South Africa vs Australia
- Dates: June 11–14, 2025
- Result: South Africa won by 5 wickets
- Player of the Match: Aiden Markram (136 runs)
Innings Breakdown
| Team | 1st innings | 2nd innings |
| Australia | 212 | 207 |
| South Africa | 138 | 282/5 |
South Africa began Day 4 needing 69 more runs with Markram (102)* and Temba Bavuma (65)* at the crease. Despite Bavuma falling early for 66, Markram continued with elegance and power, eventually falling with just six runs needed. Kyle Verreynne sealed the victory with a boundary that sparked wild celebrations on the field and back home.
Star Performances
- Aiden Markram: 136 (2nd innings), the match-defining knock
- Temba Bavuma: 66 crucial runs under pressure
- 🎯 Kagiso Rabada: 9 wickets in the match including a fiery 5-wicket haul in the first innings
- Lungi Ngidi: 3 wickets in 2nd innings to dismantle Aussie resistance
Captain’s Words
Temba Bavuma, South African skipper, couldn’t hold back the emotion:
“This is a dream. After decades of coming close and falling short, we finally did it. This is for every South African who believed in us. The wait is over.”
Global Reactions
Kumar Sangakkara:
“What a win for @ProteasMenCSA—they have out-skilled and out-wanted the Australians… powerful purpose, passion and belief.”
Chris Gayle:
“Masterful Markram! Great win by South Africa… This was a great ad for Test cricket.”
What It All Means
This wave of praise—from legends, fans, and global media—underscores more than just a win. It signifies the:
- End of a 27-year major ICC trophy drought
- Official retirement of the “chokers” label
- Emergence of Aiden Markram as a generational Test match hero
- Bavuma’s rise as a unifying leader and trailblazer
Celebrations are global, but perhaps none more so than in South Africa, where this victory has united a nation, inspired the next generation, and firmly reclaimed their place at the top of the Test cricket world.
Australia’s Collapse
Despite early momentum, Australia’s middle and lower order failed to capitalize in both innings. While Webster (72) and Smith (66) gave them some runs, the Proteas bowlers were relentless. In the second innings, they collapsed for 207, leaving a chaseable total which South Africa approached with maturity and flair.
National Pride Restored
This isn’t just a cricket win — it’s a national redemption story. Streets across Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban filled with cheers, vuvuzelas, and green-and-gold flags. Social media exploded with the hashtag #ProteaPride trending globally.
South Africa, often seen as underachievers in global tournaments, have finally lifted an ICC trophy again — and in the purest format of the game.
Looking Ahead
South Africa now joins New Zealand and Australia as WTC champions. But more importantly, they’ve shattered the mental barriers that held them back for years. With a young, united squad and rock-solid leadership, the Proteas are now strong contenders for the upcoming World Cup 2027.
This WTC title not only breaks a 27-year drought but also injects momentum and belief into a team poised for further greatness. With a solid core of experienced match-winners and young emerging talent, South Africa will head into the 2027 World Cup as genuine contenders on home soil.The “chokers” tag is dead — long live the World Champions.
