Just when Australia seemed to be regaining control in the World Test Championship final against South Africa at Lord’s, part-timer Aiden Markram delivered a crucial breakthrough by dismissing a well-set Steve Smith. The moment was made possible by a stunning juggling catch from Marco Jansen, reducing Australia to 146/5 after they had recovered from a wobbly 67/4 at lunch.

Smith, who had looked composed and dangerous, was building a solid fifth-wicket partnership with debutant Beau Webster. The duo added 79 important runs, frustrating South Africa’s bowlers during a wicketless second session. But with frontline bowlers unable to break through, Temba Bavuma turned to Markram in what looked like a tactical move to rotate ends. The decision paid off quicker than expected.

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Markram tossed one up outside off, tempting Smith into a big drive. The Australian batter obliged, only to edge it to Jansen at slip. What followed was a dramatic juggling act—Jansen fumbled twice but eventually completed the catch on his third attempt, triggering wild celebrations. Smith, clearly disappointed, walked back for a well-compiled 66.

Masterstroke from 🇿🇦! 💪🏻#AidenMarkram gets introduced into the attack and he gets the big wicket of #SteveSmith as #MarcoJansen! 🤯😯

Will Australia build a big total from here, or will South Africa restrict them to under 200? 👀

LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/9lZGHcdMLn… pic.twitter.com/BMEOYMUzcX

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) June 11, 2025

Earlier in the 1st session, It was Kagiso Rabada who set the tone with a fiery spell. After removing Usman Khawaja with a sharp delivery, he doubled the blow by dismissing Cameron Green in the same over, thanks to a stunning low catch in the slips by Aiden Markram. The Proteas’ fast bowlers stuck to probing lines and lengths, and Australia’s top order couldn’t quite settle.

Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith attempted to stabilise the innings with a brief resistance.  South Africa’s slip cordon and overall fielding have been nothing short of excellent, complementing their disciplined bowling effort.

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Wiaan Mulder, too, deserves credit—his miserly spell of 6 overs for just 6 runs included deliveries that beat the bat and kept the Aussies wary. Despite the top-order collapse, Steve Smith remains firm at one end. He’s looked composed, played with soft hands, and has been keen to rotate strike. With the ball moving off the seam and South Africa’s bowlers in rhythm, the onus is now on Smith to steer Australia back into the contest after lunch. A thrilling second session awaits.