South African spinner Keshav Maharaj couldn’t hold back his emotions as the Proteas finally shattered their 27-year ICC trophy drought with a thrilling five-wicket victory over Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at Lord’s. As Kyle Verreynne stroked the winning runs on the fourth day, Maharaj, standing at the edge of the balcony, was seen wiping tears, a moment that reflected the magnitude of South Africa’s achievement.
In a post-match chat with former captain Graeme Smith — a stalwart who never got to lift an ICC trophy himself — Keshav Maharaj was visibly overwhelmed.
“Tears won’t even describe what we feel right now,” he said, his voice trembling. “It’s special, it’s an honour to lift the cup for everyone out here and back home.” Keshav Maharaj credited the unity among the squad and the unwavering belief of fans, saying, “We’re very grateful for everyone here.”
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Maharaj further added that he was mentally ready to walk out to bat had the game gotten any tighter, and that his emotions would have only strengthened his resolve. “Through adversity, we’ve stood strong. We honour those who’ve come before us — may this be the stepping stone for greater things to come.”
Keshav Maharaj , the only Indian-origin player to touch the WTC trophy.
His Interview with graham smith can make Even Adult Cry 🥲
Congratulations South Africa 🇿🇦 and Captain Temba For making this History.#WtcFinal2025#SouthAfrica pic.twitter.com/3aZYGK3AZl
— Devendra Soni (@DevendraSo37461) June 14, 2025
The victory was nothing short of historic. Chasing 282 in the fourth innings — the joint second-highest successful chase at Lord’s — South Africa looked in trouble at 70/2, but a magnificent 147-run partnership between Aiden Markram and skipper Temba Bavuma swung the game. Markram’s masterful 136* was a blend of elegance and grit, while Bavuma, clearly in discomfort, gutsed out 66 runs that changed the course of the match.
On the final morning, South Africa required 69 runs. Although Pat Cummins provided Australia with early hope by removing Bavuma, Markram remained calm at the centre. Tristan Stubbs offered sturdy support with a patient knock before Verreynne finished things off.
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For a nation haunted by heartbreaks on the global stage — from the rain-ruled chaos in 1992 to the gut-wrenching semifinal losses — this WTC triumph was a redemption story written with resilience. It wasn’t just a win; it was a release of decades of pain, a tribute to generations of cricketers who came close but never crossed the line. And in the heart of it all stood a teary-eyed Keshav Maharaj, speaking for every South African who had waited so long for this day.
