The World Test Championship final kicked off in style at Lord’s, with Temba Bavuma winning the toss and putting Australia in to bat under cloudy skies. South Africa’s decision paid off early as Kagiso Rabada lit up the morning session with a fiery spell. After dismissing Usman Khawaja to get the Proteas on the board, Rabada returned in the same over to remove Cameron Green, courtesy of a stunning catch by Aiden Markram.
Green, who had barely settled in, was undone by a sharply dipping delivery. Markram, positioned at second slip, dived low to his right and plucked a brilliant catch just inches above the turf. Green managed only four runs off three balls, and Rabada’s double strike in the over left Australia in early trouble.
WATCH – Australia Cricketers Rev Up with Oscar Piastri at McLaren Ahead of WTC Final Clash
The South African slip cordon, especially Markram, has been exceptional so far, setting high standards in the field. A clip of Markram’s catch has quickly gone viral, with fans and pundits praising the athleticism and anticipation involved.
What a delivery from Kagiso Rabada. SA got flying start. C’mon.#WTCFinal #WTC25 #SAvsAUS pic.twitter.com/uIAoaxduRZ
— Yasin (ইয়াসিন)🇧🇩 (@Yasi_n17) June 11, 2025
Kagiso Rabada delivers big time for South Africa with two wickets in an over 🔥
Catch the action live on our official broadcasters here ➡ https://t.co/oas2Rsdptj#Cricket #CricketReels #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/I9vOR8nCup
— ICC (@ICC) June 11, 2025
Speaking at the toss, Temba Bavuma said, “Looks like a good pitch. Too late to change the team, we’ve gone with the best combination. All 15 of us are confident. Many of us have some emotional connect to Lord’s. I’m sure it’ll hit us when the anthems play.”
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At the time of writing, Australia are 37 for 2 after 14 overs. Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith are at the crease, and their partnership will be vital in steering Australia out of early trouble. While the ball isn’t swinging much, there’s enough seam movement to keep the Proteas pacers interested. A third early wicket could tilt the momentum firmly in South Africa’s favour as the new ball continues to talk.
