South Africa will take on Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final at Lord’s. As they prepare to face the reigning champions Australia in the WTC final starting on June 11, South Africa’s red-ball resurgence enters its most crucial stage yet.
Led by captain Temba Bavuma, the Proteas are determined to end a 25-year wait and claim the prestigious WTC mace for the first time.
South Africa topped the WTC 2023-25 points table with a points percentage of 69.44%, having won eight of their twelve matches, drawn one, and lost only three. Their journey to the final was marked by resilience, adaptability, and a strong home record.
At home, their campaign began with a fiercely competitive 1-1 draw against India. Although they suffered a 2-0 series defeat to New Zealand away, they quickly bounced back with a 1-0 win in the Caribbean.
Following that, Bavuma’s side went on an impressive run, securing back-to-back 2-0 series victories over Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
South Africa Announce Playing XI for WTC 2025 Final Against Australia
The WTC 2025 final is set to begin on June 11 at Lord’s. This marks the first time in 100 years that these two teams will face off in a Test match at this historic venue. South Africa has unveiled a well-balanced playing XI for the eagerly awaited final, blending promising young talent with seasoned experience.
Temba Bavuma will lead the side as captain, bringing leadership, calm, and stability to the middle order. Alongside him are Ryan Rickelton, aiming to make his mark on cricket’s biggest stage, and Aiden Markram, a dependable opener.
The Proteas have unveiled their XI for the Ultimate Test 📝
— ICC (@ICC) June 10, 2025
Read more on the #WTC25 Final ⬇️https://t.co/5wHc6plaDW
South Africa’s batting lineup gains momentum through the aggressive middle-order contributions of David Bedingham and Tristan Stubbs. Kyle Verreynne, serving as the wicket-keeper, has also proven to be a dependable batsman from behind the stumps.
Wiaan Mulder, a versatile all-rounder recently added to the Proteas squad, strengthens the team with his skills in both batting and bowling, adding valuable depth.
The pace attack is spearheaded by the formidable duo of Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi, both known for their ability to dismantle batting lineups. Marco Jansen complements them by providing extra pace and bolstering the team’s batting depth.
The experienced Keshav Maharaj is South Africa’s sole spinner, whose game management and knack for taking key wickets will be vital in conditions favoring spin.
South Africa’s playing XI: Temba Bavuma (Captain), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (Wicket-Keeper), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
