The stage is set for the ultimate showdown in test cricket. Australia and South Africa are all geared up to clash in the final of the World Test Championship, starting June 11 at the iconic Lord’s cricket ground in England. Both teams boast an array of talented players, making this a contest for the ages. But what happens if the match ends in a draw? Who will be crowned the champion?
According to the ICC rules, if the final match ends in a draw, the trophy will be shared between the two teams. This would be a historic first in the World Test Championship, where two teams would share the top honors.
Past Encounters
Australia and South Africa have a long and storied history in test cricket, having faced each other 101 times. The Aussies have dominated the Proteas, winning 54 matches compared to South Africa’s 26. A total of 21 matches have ended in a draw.
Squads
Here are the squads for both teams:
- South Africa: Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Keshav Maharaj, Sinethemba Qeshile
- Australia: Usman Khawaja, Sam Consent, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann
Where to Watch
The final match will be telecast live on the Star Sports network in India, while the live streaming will be available on the JioCinema app. The match is scheduled to start at 3:30 PM IST. Will Australia’s dominance continue, or will South Africa cause an upset? The world will be watching as these two cricketing powerhouses clash in the ultimate test of endurance and skill.