The stage is set for a historic showdown at Lord’s, the mecca of cricket, as Australia and South Africa face off in the World Test Championship 2025 final. The match, starting June 11, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two powerhouses of the sport.
Led by Pat Cummins, Australia is looking to make history by becoming the first team to win the WTC title twice. The team has a wealth of experience, with four bowlers – Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood – featuring in the country’s top-10 Test wicket-takers list. This formidable attack will be crucial in navigating the pressures of the final.
On the other hand, South Africa is eager to claim its first ICC trophy. The team has been on a remarkable run, winning seven consecutive Test matches to reach the final. With a potent bowling lineup and a confident squad, the Proteas are determined to make the most of this opportunity.
One player who could be a game-changer is Steve Smith. Despite not having played competitive cricket since March, Smith boasts an impressive Test average of nearly 58 at Lord’s. He recently achieved the milestone of 10,000 Test runs, a feat that underscores his class and consistency.
However, Australia has some concerns regarding the form and fitness of certain players, including Alex Carey, Nathan Lyon, and Scott Boland, who have been sidelined for a while.
Here are the squads for the upcoming match:
Australia:
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Cameron Green
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Beau Webster
- Alex Carey (wicketkeeper)
- Pat Cummins (captain)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Josh Hazlewood
South Africa:
- Temba Bavuma (captain)
- Aiden Markram
- Ryan Rickelton
- Rassie van der Dussen
- Tristan Stubbs
- David Bedingham
- Kyle Verreynne
- Marco Jansen
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Lungi Ngidi
The stage is set for an epic battle between two cricketing giants. Who will emerge victorious and claim the coveted title? Only time will tell.