South Africa captain Aiden Markram says his side can expect to have a target on their back when they begin a new cycle of the World Test Championship as defending champions.

South Africa play a two-test series in Pakistan, starting on Sunday, and two games in India in November as they bid to retain the trophy they won in June by beat Australia by five wickets at Lord's.

Save the date! 🗓

The Proteas Men are heading to Pakistan for a thrilling tour that will feature 2 test matches, 3 ODIs, and 3 T20Is. 🇿🇦🏏

It’s going to be action-packed; be sure not to miss it! 🔥#WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/1r3eqbXvuk

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) September 8, 2025

The World Test Championship is decided at the end of a two-year cycle, with the top two teams competing in a one-off five-day match.

"I suppose you create a bit of a target on your back if you’ve won (the WTC), and if that’s the case, it’s fair. We want to chase a place in the final again and lift that trophy once again but realise each team will be coming for us," said Markram, who stands in as skipper for Temba Bavuma who has been ruled out of the tour with a calf strain.

"We, as a team, have to keep getting better and improving and playing well in all different types of conditions. It starts for us in Pakistan, and it’s a challenge the boys will be up for," he told a press conference on Monday.

South Africa have been practising on specially prepared spinning wickets at Pretoria’s High Performance Centre.

"There were a couple of nets prepared where the spin is really exaggerated, and you’d rather err on that side, and maybe then it’s a bit easier when we get to Pakistan," Markram said.

"We’re expecting to face a lot of spin over there, and it’s also, naturally, a lot lower there from a seam point of view. There’s a lot of skiddy, so it’s hard to try and emulate that here in South Africa, but we’ve been looking to put a lot of emphasis on finding a way to train for that."

The first test against Pakistan is in Lahore and the second begins on October 20 in Rawalpindi.

94 days have passed since Proteas Men’s captain, Temba Bavuma, proudly lifted the coveted test Mace at Lord’s Cricket Ground, following a historic ICC World Test Championship 2025 (WTC) victory.

That triumphant spirit continues to burn brightly as the Proteas Men extend their winning momentum abroad.

Although the team’s demanding schedules prevented an immediate tour following their triumph, Captain Temba Bavuma and Coach Shukri Conrad have reaffirmed that celebrating this achievement with the nation remains a top priority.

For the Proteas Men, the opportunity to share this milestone with fans nationwide is a vital part of honouring their victory, regardless of how much time has passed.

On 23 September 2025 Temba and the Proteas Men will embark on a nationwide Mace Tour, uniting South Africans from all walks of life and inviting fans to share in the spirit of cricket.

The official Mace Tour is set to commence in Kimberley and Bloemfontein, followed by Durban, Gqeberha, East London and ending in Cape Town.

The tour will take place over a four-day period, stopping at unique locations within each city.

Cricket South Africa, the Proteas Men, and Management invite fans to come out in numbers to meet the World test Champions.

Mace Tour Programme:

Tuesday, 23 September 2025: Kimberley and Bloemfontein

08:30 – 10:00: Diamond Oval - Kimberley

12:30 – 14:00: Tshoseletso High School – Rocklands Bloemfontein

17:30 – 18:30: Airport Meet and Greet - King Shaka International, Durban

Wednesday, 24 September 2025: Durban and Gqeberha

08:30 – 09:30: City bus parade from Umhlanga to HWB Kingsmead Stadium - Durban

09:30 – 12:00: SAB Braai Day at HWB Kingsmead Stadium - Durban

17:30 – 19:30: Boardwalk Photo Opportunity and Signing Session - Gqeberha

Thursday, 25 September 2025: Gqeberha and East London

08:00 – 10:00: School Assembly Event and Captains’ Panel Discussion – Grey High School, Gqeberha

14:00 – 16:00: EL City Bus Parade – King Williams Town → Mdantsane Township → East London CBD

16:00 – 17:30: City Hall Fan Activation – Photo Opportunity and Signing Session – East London

Friday, 26 September 2025: Cape Town

12:00 – 14:00: Fan Meet & Greet, Grand Parade - Cape Town

14:00 – 16:00: CBD Open Bus Parade - Cape Town

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) will continue to host the biennial final of the World Test Championship for the next three editions till 2031, global governing body ICC said on Sunday.

The match, which crowns the world champions in the longest format of the sport, has been held in England since it was introduced, with Southampton hosting the first edition in 2021 and the two subsequent finals taking place in London.

“We are absolutely delighted that England and Wales has been chosen to host the next three ICC World Test Championship finals," the ECB chief executive Richard Gould said.

"It’s a testament to the passion that fans in this country have for this treasured format of the game and the willingness of supporters from around the world to travel here for these games."

The 2025 final at Lord's, where South Africa beat defending champions Australia, was attended by 109 227 people over four days and received 225 million digital views, the ICC said in a statement last month.

"Hosting these finals is a privilege, and we look forward to working with the ICC to build on the success of the previous editions," Gould added.

England were docked two World Test Championship (WTC) points and fined 10 per cent match fees on Wednesday for their slow over rate in the third test against India at Lord's.

The hosts went 2-1 up in the five-test series with a thrilling 22-run victory but were found two overs short of target in a match where the Dukes ball went out of shape several times and had to be replaced.

"England captain Ben Stokes pled guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing," the International Cricket Council said in a statement.

Players lose five per cent of their match fees for every over their team fail to bowl in the allotted time. It also costs the team one WTC point.

England slipped from second to third in the WTC standings behind Sri Lanka following the points deduction. Australia, who completed a 3-0 sweep of West Indies earlier this week, lead the standings in the new 2025-2027 cycle.

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma said the massive, joyous welcome his team received when returning home on Wednesday from their World Test Championship final triumph was a sign of how special the achievement was.

Bavuma and his teammates were greeted by several thousand supporters when they landed in Johannesburg following a five-wicket win over Australia in the final at Lord's last weekend.

The win gave South Africa their first International Cricket Council title since 1998.

They have suffered many agonising near-misses in knockout games since.

Mzansi, you showed UP! 🫵🇿🇦💚

Thank you to every South African who came out to OR Tambo this morning to welcome our ICC World Test Championship winners home! Your love, your flags, your voices echoed through the halls.

This victory is for YOU!#WTCFinal #ProteasWTCFinal… pic.twitter.com/yTLLwwSLUy

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 18, 2025

"It was quite overwhelming and I have not seen such a lot of people at the airport before," Bavuma said at Cricket South Africa headquarters, where they were given an official welcome.

"It's quite different to when we came home from the last (Twenty20) World Cup. I guess we have not really realised what we have done until you see that emotion.

"And to have done it in a proper South African way – it was not simple nor easy – shows something unique to this group and that is that we embrace everything of what it means to be South African.

"From a team perspective, we would like to leave a legacy behind and start inspiring and encouraging other teams to go and win trophies.

"Hopefully this is the start of a lot of trophies. We don't have a big legacy yet, but we can speak again in two or three years time when we have started a culture of winning trophies."

🏆 There's no better feeling in the world! 🌍 pic.twitter.com/g8AHxGiVOC

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 18, 2025

The vibes are immaculate 🇿🇦🔥

A warm public reception as Mzansi welcomes home its ICC World Test Champions 🏏. #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/Qb95Kc0T5X

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 18, 2025

The champions return, greeted by roaring crowds and a proud nation. 🏏🇿🇦🔥#TeamSA #ForMyCountry pic.twitter.com/FZqokTl2fa

— Team South Africa (@OfficialTeamRSA) June 18, 2025

A 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 welcome for the Proteas as they return home with the mace 🤩#WTC25 pic.twitter.com/OGer8hIhKy

— ICC (@ICC) June 18, 2025

The Home of South African Cricket📍🏢

Our ICC World Test Champions arriving at the Cricket South Africa Head Office following their historic conquest of the World Test Championship 🏆🔥. #WTCFinal #ProteasWTCFinal #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/1QefksmPvl

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 18, 2025

The 35-year-old batsman has had to endure much criticism since making his Proteas debut in 2014 and said the way he and his team have overcome their challenges can be an example to those that follow.

"It speaks to all budding cricketers or any individual in fact, that it is not simple and easy to fulfil your journey.

"But when you start questioning things, as long as you keep your passion and keep positive, then you can achieve what people think is impossible.

"As much as the Aussies were saying we were chokers in the field, we never made it our thing. We just said we've got to keep going and be relentless, and the harder we knock, the doors will open.

"Chokers was not our tag to carry, we never spoke about it, although you always feel a responsibility when you wear the badge.

"But for now we're going to enjoy this moment and seeing the joy of my family and my strong support system, there is nothing better."

Several thousand supporters were at the main airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday to welcome home World Test Championship winners South Africa.

Temba Bavuma captained the Proteas to a five-wicket triumph over long-time rivals Australia at Lord's last Saturday to end a 27-year major trophy drought.

The Proteas have arrived in South Africa 🇿🇦🏆 pic.twitter.com/WZ5FA5kgjs

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 18, 2025

He and coach Shukri Conrad were the first to greet cheering supporters, with both holding the Mace they received for being crowned champions.

🏆 There's no better feeling in the world! 🌍 pic.twitter.com/g8AHxGiVOC

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 18, 2025

Each player then carried a bouquet of flowers while shaking hands with some supporters, hugging others and signing autographs.

The vibes are immaculate 🇿🇦🔥

A warm public reception as Mzansi welcomes home its ICC World Test Champions 🏏. #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/Qb95Kc0T5X

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 18, 2025

A 𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒑𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔 welcome for the Proteas as they return home with the mace 🤩#WTC25 pic.twitter.com/OGer8hIhKy

— ICC (@ICC) June 18, 2025

The champions return, greeted by roaring crowds and a proud nation. 🏏🇿🇦🔥#TeamSA #ForMyCountry pic.twitter.com/FZqokTl2fa

— Team South Africa (@OfficialTeamRSA) June 18, 2025

Opening batter Aiden Markram recovered from a first-innings duck to hit 136 in the second innings and pave the way for a victory in London with a day and a half to spare.

Paceman Kagiso Rabada took nine wickets in the final to be another key figure as South Africa triumphed for the first time since lifting the 1998 ICC Knockout Trophy (now Champions Trophy).

South Africans have turned up at OR Tambo International Airport to welcome the Proteas home 🇿🇦🏆 pic.twitter.com/M70u9frQQN

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 18, 2025

Among those who greeted the team on a cool, sunny winter morning in the South African commercial capital were accountant Brian Gabela and receptionist Mandy Tshabalala.

Gabela, 35, said: "I had to be here and welcome the boys home. They have suffered so many heartbreaks during the past two decades. Now we are champions of the world.

"I was pessimistic when we trailed by 74 runs after the first innings, but a magnificent second knock from Aiden Markram turned the tide."

A Hero’s Welcome! 🇿🇦🏆

Minister Gayton McKenzie rolled out the carpet as our ICC World Test Champions touched down on home soil today! 💚

A proud moment for the nation as the Proteas return with the mace and history made at Lord’s! 🏆#WTCFinal #ProteasWTCFinal #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/iffVwlldP6

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 18, 2025

Mzansi, you showed UP! 🫵🇿🇦💚

Thank you to every South African who came out to OR Tambo this morning to welcome our ICC World Test Championship winners home! Your love, your flags, your voices echoed through the halls.

This victory is for YOU!#WTCFinal #ProteasWTCFinal… pic.twitter.com/yTLLwwSLUy

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 18, 2025

ZIMBABWE NEXT

Tshabalala, 37, travelled to the airport with her son, Monthati, and admitted she was also worried after Australia built a first-innings advantage.

"I have been supporting the Proteas since I was a child and it has been sad seeing them come so close so often without bringing home a trophy.

"Apart from his studies, my high school son spends many hours each week keeping up to date with the Proteas. His favourite cricketer is Kagiso (Rabada)."

South Africa are next be in action on 28 June when they face northern neighbours Zimbabwe in the first of two tests in Bulawayo.

Bavuma will lead the team, but Markram and Rabada are being rested. Among five uncapped players called up are Titans duo Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Lesego Senokwane.

Pretorius, 19, made a huge impression in a recent domestic four-day competition, striking three centuries in five appearances and averaging 72.66.

🇿🇦 The Proteas head to Zimbabwe for a historic Test tour 🇿🇼.

The red-ball journey continues as the Proteas gear up for a Test series against Zimbabwe. A battle of pride, heritage, and high-stakes cricket 🏏🔥.

With momentum from our recent triumph in the ICC World Test… pic.twitter.com/hlQTJYUlyb

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 17, 2025

Senokwane also impressed with the bat in the competition, hitting 559 runs, including two centuries.

Both players have been chosen after recently making their debuts for South Africa A against the West Indies A.

After the tests, South Africa will play Zimbabwe and New Zealand in a seven-match Twenty20 tournament in Harare.

TEST SQUAD

Temba Bavuma (capt), David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne, Codi Yusuf

Catch live the welcome of the ICC World test Champions on SuperSport Cricket (TV Channel) and the official Facebook Cricket page at 09:30 AM (CAT) today, 18 June 2025.

The Proteas Men are back on home soil, proudly carrying the ICC World Test Championship Mace! A historic triumph, a united nation, and a legacy that will echo through generations.

MEET THE CHAMPIONS! 🏆🇿🇦

After conquering the world and lifting the ICC World Test Championship Mace, now it’s YOUR turn to celebrate with the Proteas! 🙌🇿🇦🏏

Come through, bring the gees, and meet the heroes who made history! 💚💛#WTCFinal #ProteasWTCFinal #WozaNawe pic.twitter.com/FEoUNovpNp

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) June 17, 2025

South Africa’s dramatic and emotional five-wicket victory against Australia to win the World Test Championship final at Lord’s will be remembered, as most sports contests are, for what happened at the end.

Aiden Markram delivered one of the better innings in SA test history to earn the player-of-the-match award with Proteas equalling the second highest run-chase (282) at Lord’s.

Kagiso Rabada, however, had every bit as much to do with South Africa’s triumph with an equally remarkable match-haul of 9-110 to give his country a chance and allow Markram to play as he did.

The difference between them, perhaps, is that Rabada is the only universally acknowledged ‘superstar’ in the SA team.

It was widely accepted that a huge contribution from him would be essential if the underdogs were to win.

“To be honest, I don't see myself as a star. I see myself as someone who's willing to give my blood for this team and continue working hard and improving. That's me as a cricketer, always wanting to improve and playing for the badge with a lot of pride,” Rabada said in the moments after victory had been secured.

“Every game that I play, I'm looking to get wickets. I'm not going to go into the game thinking, man, I need to get seven wickets for us to win.

“I look at it as, okay, this is an opportunity for me to get as many wickets as I can and make an impact for the team. But I know that I'm not going to do it alone. And I back all the players that are in the team. You’re playing for South Africa for a reason, it's not by chance,” Rabada said before reflecting on the enormity of the team’s achievement.

“It’s hard to sum up, it’ll take a while to sink in. It was so lovely to have our families here, and just walking around and seeing all the supporters. I'm not going to call them fans. They were really behind us and we felt all of their energy, they were just fantastic. This was truly special. I can't really describe it.”

But did he really believe the team could win after they were bowled out for just 138 to concede a first innings deficit of 74 runs?

“Well, when you're in the final, you have to think that way. There are normally two voices in your head, the one that doubts and the one that believes. That's the one that we keep feeding, especially in big moments like this, the World Test Championship final. And that's why you saw the performances you saw, it’s a testament to our team this season,” Rabada said.

“We've been working hard. I've been working extremely hard. Those second innings spells, those are the ones that count more. You’re a bit tired, you’re behind the game…but it was just about staying calm and looking at what's in front of us. And then all mayhem broke loose when we got five wickets in just a few overs, that was just crazy. It's just a funny game, cricket.

“I'll never forget this in my life. None of the boys will forget this in their lives. Playing against Australia, they're well accustomed to winning, but they are a bit of an ageing team - with all due respect. Some of those guys were playing when we were still in high school. It’s just so special.”

Shukri Conrad was appointed Proteas test coach just in time for the start of the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle and made a less than promising start – not that it had anything to do with him.

Now, 18 months later, his team are test Champions of the world following their thrilling five-wicket victory against defending champions, Australia, at Lord’s on Saturday.

The journey began well enough with a resounding innings victory against India at SuperSport Park but slipped rapidly out of control with a seven-wicket loss at Newlands in the shortest test ever recorded with the home bowled out for just 55 on a pitch patently unsuited for anything other than a junior school game.

Conrad was forced to cobble together a make-shift squad for two tests in New Zealand with the country’s best players contractually committed to the SA20 and they lost 2-0, South Africa’s first ever defeat to the Black Caps, home or away.

But they stormed back with seven consecutive victories to clinch a place in the final and then made it eight at Lord’s to win the country’s first ICC title for 27 years.

The @ProteasMenCSA reach the promised land 🥳🇿🇦#SSCricket | #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/iA5XMsiZK8

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 14, 2025

South Africa needed a further 69 runs on Saturday morning after resuming on 213-2 chasing 282: “It was probably the two worst hours of cricket for me, but the two best at the same time. Living every emotion, sketching everything that could potentially go wrong. The mind just plays weird and wonderful games,” Conrad said after the match was over.

“But when Kyle (Verreynne) hit the winning runs there was just an outpour of applause from everyone. I’m so thrilled for these guys, so happy for them. Something we never talk about is what it means to the country, but today we can talk about that. This means a hellova lot for the country.”

Aiden Markram’s brilliant 136 in the run-chase, Kagiso Rabada’s match haul of 9-110 (and second entry on the Lord’s Honours Board) and Temba Bavuma’s courageous 66 in a third-wicket partnership of 147 with Markram were the obvious keys to victory although Lungi Ngidi’s three-wicket burst in the second innings, starting with Steve Smith, reduced Australia to 73-7 with a lead of just 147.

“KG was buggered at that stage so someone had to bowl, and it had to be Lungi, because he wasn't comfortable bowling from the Pavilion End and we needed to swap him to the Nursery end. It was a case of ‘Lungs, now's the time, you need to step up here. We need you. And he delivered. That has been the great thing about this team, someone always steps up. Don’t forget Wiaan’s 27 in the second innings, that just settled the change room,” Conrad said.

Conrad bristled with delightful indignation, as always, when he was asked about the ‘Big Three’ test nations, India, England and Australia, and how they dominated the global game:

“We're the world champions. We create our own reality. We haven't played any of the big three? We played one of them, and beat them. This is not me being arrogant, this is me saying ‘when we play against supposedly the top three, we will perform’. We're the world champions.

Conrad was also reminded of the two big selection decisions he made at the start of his tenure: to recall Markram and appoint Bavuma as captain:

“They were simple decisions. Aidan Markram was always going to be my opening bat, he delivers on the big stage. The look in his eyes when we went into bat…you knew he was going to come good. And Temba, quiet leader, leads from the back, but certainly from the front with the bat.”

Conrad was also quick to acknowledge the crowd and the WTC final as an event at Lord’s:

“It's easy to say because we’ve just won, but if the result had been different, it'd still have said it was the best cricketing experience we've ever been a part of. It's an absolute spectacle. Everything about this place is spot on. But the vibe, the crowd support, it was wonderful.

“People who take time off and spend hard-earned cash at 25 Rand to a Pound to come out here and support us. We're just thrilled that we could deliver for them as well. Australia have been a thorn in South Africa's side for a long, long time.

“It's the most amazing feeling. Obviously, a lot of teams in different formats have got close and not got over the line. And I think in some perverse sort of way, guys like Aiden and Temba will experience the heartache and the trauma of not getting over the line. They become more experienced at handling pressure situations like this. I’m just so thrilled that those guys will get us over the line. An amazing feeling.

“I just want people to fall in love with first-class and test cricket again. I think people will, because the spin-offs are immense. T20, the most popular format, benefits if you've got a strong first-class system and a strong test team. You only need to look at the IPL. Our players are the most sought after, and today we become world test champions as well.”

"It was the best cricketing experience we've ever been part of." 🏏🔥

Shukri Conrad lauds the #WTC25 after a fantastic four days at Lord's 🗣️#SSCricket

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 16, 2025

A riveting World Test Championship final between Australia and South Africa went a long way to boost the sagging credentials of the five-day game, but the format of the competition is in need of a revamp, according to many of the game’s top observers.

South Africa beat Australia by five wickets at lunch on the fourth day of a fluctuating contest at Lord's in which the bowlers dominated the opening two days. A total of 24 wickets were taken, but the tables were turned as wickets turned benign and the batsmen changed the course of the match.

It was classic test cricket, as good as the excitement from any limited overs contest, but the overall WTC is a bewildering competition, devoid of uniformity and an unbalanced points system.

There was much criticism of how South Africa managed to reach the final without playing either Australia and England in the two-year qualifying period.

"It's very hard for the average cricket fan to understand who's the best team in the world and how exactly the top two teams make it to the final," said former England captain Michael Vaughan, now a television pundit.

The two finalists are decided by a table of test results, with points awarded for wins and draws. The pair with the highest percentage of points available to them advance to the final, which in 2027 could again be at Lord's or in India, according to International Cricket Council officials.

But there was a major discrepancy in South Africa playing only 12 tests compared to 19 for Australia and India, and even more by England (22).

"I can't remember if I've ever even given any real time to be specifically thinking about the World Test Championship to be honest because it's utterly confusing," added England captain Ben Stokes.

Countries are free to decide how many tests they want to play, and in South Africa's case, there is much less of an appetite for test cricket because they lose money.

In the next cycle, which starts on Tuesday when Bangladesh begin a two-test series in Sri Lanka, the new champions will play 14 tests, this time including three test series against each of Australia and England but only two against India.

Five test series are now only the preserve of contests between Australia, England, and India.

"The fixture list is uneven; not everyone plays everyone else, and some have an easier ride than others," wrote Michael Atherton last week.

"Everyone knows the WTC in its present guise is flawed, and that solutions, with so many competing interests, are fiendishly difficult," added the former England skipper.

After 9722 days, the wait is over. The Proteas Men have secured the ICC World Test Championship at Lord’s on Saturday, as they defeated Australia by five wickets, on day four of the Final.

It ended a 27-year wait for ICC success, as this was the first senior Men’s trophy since the 1998 ICC Knockout victory.

In many ways, the victory by captain Temba Bavuma was not just for this generation, but for all those who have played their part in the Proteas jersey. Various former players were present at Lord’s and shared in the delight of seeing their team on top of the world.

The @ProteasMenCSA reach the promised land 🥳🇿🇦#SSCricket | #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/iA5XMsiZK8

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 14, 2025

Cricket South Africa (CSA) Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki led the congratulations for the team, paying tribute to the team’s character and all those who have supported them on the journey.

“I can’t think of a team more deserving of this WTC Mace. This team has displayed remarkable tenacity and strength over the past two years,” Moseki noted.

“This occasion holds immense significance in the world of sport and cricket. It is a tribute not only to the current squad, but also to those who paved the way before them.”

Moseki also pointed out that this victory belonged to the team, legends, the people of South Africa and all those inspired to take up the game by this remarkable victory.

When Kyle Verreynne struck the winning runs, it sparked wild celebrations for the team and their strong showing of support at Lord’s. A hallmark of all four days has been the distinctly South African flavour around the ground, with songs, flags and national jerseys prominent in the stands.

The team has also been overwhelmed by constant messages of encouragement from back home, especially during a match where the momentum swung wildly over the first two days.

Australia was bowled out for 212 in the first innings, after Bavuma had invited them to bat. Kagiso Rabada’s five for 51 earned him the distinction of being on both the home and away dressing-room Honours boards.

The Proteas were then bowled out for 138, with David Bedingham (45) and Bavuma (36) making key contributions in tough batting conditions.

That left the Proteas with a deficit of 74 runs, on a difficult pitch.

Lungi Ngidi, back in the team after injury, broke the game wide open with an inspired spell on the second evening, as he helped himself to three for 38, including the prize scalp of Steve Smith.

Bowling spearhead Rabada (four for 59) then completed a magnificent personal performance with the ball, but Australia’s tail added crucial late runs to tally 207 in their second innings.

Man of the match Aiden Markram struck a majestic 136, marking his eighth test century, and his fourth against Australia.

His six-and-a-half-hour marathon was the cornerstone of the success, and he was ably supported by Bavuma, who scored 66 from 134 balls. What made the captain’s knock even more impressive was that he was hampered by a hamstring strain for most of his stay at the crease.

He and Markram put together a priceless stand of 147 in just over three hours, taking the Proteas to the brink of a new chapter of South African cricket history.

Both fell on the final morning, but the Proteas and an incredible display of support away from home could not be denied a day to remember at the Home of Cricket.

CSA Director of National Teams and High Performance Enoch Nkwe commended the team for their unwavering commitment.

“This moment is a reminder that no dream is too distant, no challenge insurmountable and no legacy too heavy to carry forward,” Nkwe saluted.

“I commend the unwavering commitment demonstrated by each player, both on and off the field. Reaching this milestone, coupled with remarkable key performances, will undoubtedly be etched into the history books,” Nkwe added.

Indeed, it is an eighth consecutive test victory for Bavuma and his team, notched on four different continents. It is a testament to their adaptability and character, and collective talents that have found a solution for every question thrown at them over the past two years of the WTC cycle.

That adaptability is emphasised by a look at each of the men in the squad for the WTC final. Every one of them had a telling contribution on the road to glory, each man earning their winning medal.

While breaking the ICC drought is justifiable cause for celebration, this team is determined to ensure that the road doesn’t end with this final. Indeed, much like London buses, they are keen to ensure that after the long wait for an ICC trophy, two arrive in quick succession.

The ICC ODI World Cup, to be hosted in South Africa, is now less than two years away. Many of the men who did duty on the road to test glory also form the foundation of coach Shukri Conrad’s white-ball plans.

For now, however, the squad will celebrate this breakthrough moment and then return home to South Africa on Wednesday at 09:25 SAST.

“The next time we see Shukri and his team, we will welcome them as the ICC World test Champions!” Nkwe declared.

Before that welcome, the team may well have to pass through O.R Tambo International Airport customs, so that they can declare a rather significant piece of international history that they are bringing back into the country.

Australia could shake up their batting after crashing to South Africa in the World Test Championship final, with captain Pat Cummins saying a "reset" was needed ahead of three tests in the West Indies and a home Ashes series.

The five-wicket defeat at Lord's on Saturday, after posting a 74-run first-innings lead, has renewed focus on Australia's top order which has struggled since opener David Warner retired 17 months ago.

The elevation of out-of-form Marnus Labuschagne as Usman Khawaja's fifth opening partner since Warner bowed out did not work, while the experiment of Cameron Green at three flopped.

The 38-year-old Khawaja is also under the microscope, scoring nought and six as his lean spell against pace continued.

Green made four in the first innings and lasted only two balls before departing for a duck in the second as the new-look top three managed a total of 49 runs in the match.

Australia's batting woes were laid bare, particularly in the second innings, when only a plucky unbeaten fifty from fast-bowler Mitchell Starc and 43 from wicketkeeper Alex Carey gave the Proteas a tough chase.

"There's probably quite a few people in the line-up that wish they could have done a little bit more," Cummins told reporters.

"The top three was an obvious one in this game."

FRESH START

With the 2027 WTC cycle kicking off when Australia travel to the West Indies for a three-test series beginning in Barbados on June 25, the skipper admitted "it does feel like a little bit of a fresh start".

"We've got a couple of weeks before the first test in the Windies, so we'll sit down and have a bit of a think after we digest this game," he said.

"But for me, I think a new WTC cycle in some ways does feel like a bit of a reset.

"It's probably more for the selectors and for me to sit down and map it ahead."

Compounding Australia's woes, veteran Steve Smith, who hit a majestic first innings' 66, is doubtful for the first West Indies test after dislocating his finger.

If he is ruled out, gung-ho teenager Sam Konstas, who played two tests against India last summer before being dropped, could slot back in alongside Khawaja.

That would allow Labuschagne to drop back to three, should he survive the axe after averaging just 25.63 in tests during the 2024/25 season.

There is also the option of Josh Inglis, who was in the WTC squad, as an opener.

Australian media made it clear that change was needed, with The Australian newspaper calling the defeat a "wake-up call" with the five-test Ashes series against England beginning in November.

"Father Time is undefeated and selectors must now be decisive over key calls for the future," it said.

Cummins acknowledged all cards were on the table with only five months to go until the first Ashes test in Perth beginning on November 20.

"Coming to this match, you've got guys like Sam Konstas and Scotty Boland and Josh Inglis, all those guys were right on the fringes," he said.

"So I think again, after this test match, everyone gets thrown back into the conversation."

South Africa shed their unwanted tag as nearly men with a decisive five-wicket win over Australia in the World Test Championship final on Saturday.

Victory, secured by Aiden Markram's superb hundred, with South Africa captain Temba Bavuma making a valuable fifty, ended years of tournament heartache for the Proteas following multiple failures at the one-day international and T20 World Cups.

Below AFP Sport looks at three key points that emerged from a fascinating final at Lord's.

MORE TO TESTS THAN THE 'BIG THREE'

Two of the three WTC finals have now been won by teams outside cricket's 'Big Three' powerhouse nations of England, Australia and India after New Zealand's inaugural 2021 triumph.

At a time when there are widespread fears that red-ball cricket could become the preserve of the Big Three alone, this is perhaps a sign of test cricket's enduring competitiveness.

South Africa, however, will not be playing a home test during the upcoming 2025/26 season.

And several South African observers reckoned there were more fans supporting Bavuma's men at Lord's than had seen at a home test in years.

There has long been talk of setting up a test match fund to help cricket's financially poorer nations defray some of the costs of staging five-day games.

Such a move could improve the WTC, with the current format under fire because teams do not all have to play each other or the same number of matches.

"We want to play more test cricket," said Bavuma after the final. "We want to play against the bigger nations. So I think this will go a long way in making us a lot more attractive."

AUSTRALIA FAIL TO PREPARE

With 28 wickets falling on the first two days, there was inevitably talk about whether the pitch was too much in favour of the fast bowlers on both sides.

But research by analysts at CricViz found there was in fact less movement in some areas than is typical for Lord's.

Not for the first time, minimal preparation was more likely the cause of the batsmen's troubles adapting to English conditions.

Australia didn't have a solitary practice match in England.

The experienced Steve Smith was responsible for the lone fifty by a specialist Australia batsman in the final.

The title-holders still led by 74 runs after the first innings, after making 212, but Australia captain Pat Cummins said: "We could have batted the opposition out of the game by putting on well over 300 plus. We didn't give ourselves a big enough buffer and we let them back into the game."

CATCHES STILL WIN MATCHES

The worth of the saying "catches win matches" was underlined by a sensational South Africa fielding display on the first day.

After Bavuma won the toss and elected to bowl first in overcast fielding conditions, he needed his pacemen to be on their game.

Kagiso Rabada, who went on to take an impressive nine wickets in the match, was on target from ball one.

But Rabada and the rest of the pace attack were backed up superbly as the South Africa slip cordon and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne held several stunning catches.

By contrast advanced slip Smith's drop of Bavuma, when the Proteas skipper had made just two, during the run chase helped turn the game South Africa's way.

Q: Half-volley to start, Aiden - maybe you just closed your eyes and it happened - but how did you sleep last night? (On 102* with 69 runs still required)

AM: Horribly to be honest. I tried to take a sleeping tablet, it didn't work. The mind just couldn't switch off. But fortunately, today wasn't ever going to be a full day, so I knew either way it would be fine. But yeah, didn't sleep too well.

Q: There were a few tears when you reached your century last night…

AM: Yeah, it was weird. Last night I was pretty emotional. From about 5:30pm, the last half hour, the game had sort of slowed down. I had a bit of time to look around and see all the fans, the family, all the mates that are there… and I was like, yes, we're here now. Like, we're getting close. And it caught me off guard. Obviously, then the 100 happened, and a couple of tears leaked out that I was trying to fight. In terms of today, nothing's hit me just yet, so maybe that's a good thing. But something needs to hit me soon to get out all the emotions because it's been a bit of a roller coaster.

One for the history books 📚

Full highlights 🎥 https://t.co/rW4xWZIfyG#WTC25 #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/yiY8N1htId

— ICC (@ICC) June 14, 2025

Q: Did you have any doubts that the final 69 runs would be scored?

AM: I didn't think too much about that. It was more about not wanting to expose the next player to it. We've all been in very high-pressure situations and it can make you think differently, react differently and it's more just about not exposing guys to that if you have the opportunity to keep batting. So that's more what I was thinking. Bit of a frustration that it took quite some time to get there. But again, it was a soft ball on a slow wicket, ring field and it was always going to be slow scoring unfortunately. So, we were trying to play, trying to get it over and done with. It just wasn't working out. But there doesn't always have to be a ‘comments section’. It's about getting the job done!

Q: Aidan, your innings is already being spoken of as one of the most significant innings in South African test history. Did thought cross your mind while you're actually playing it?

AM: I wasn't thinking about it, to be fair. I thought a lot about the T20 World Cup last night and how hopeless I felt sitting on the side after getting out. I was like, I don't want to sit there again. So, it gave me a bit of motivation to make sure I stay at the crease if I could. But I never once thought about the achievements and what would come with it. It was always about just trying to get the job done and trying to win.

Q: Your test cap is faded, a sign of the blood, sweat and tears that you put into it. For South Africa's first world title to be a test title, and at Lord’s against Australia, what does that mean to you?

AM: Yes, it's as big and as tough as it gets. All the questions that have been asked in the past have fortunately now been answered. The test one is always going to be, in my opinion, the toughest one. It's many days of playing good cricket, whereas in a T20 or even one-day cricket nowadays you just need one person to really put their hand up on the day and you can get a win. So, it was always going to be the toughest. It was always going to be a full team effort to get over the line. Guys chipped in exactly when they needed to. Something small like Mulder's partnership yesterday, that's huge to take the sting out of the new ball. And then Temba, both his knocks were massive. It’s not always about the massive milestones. But those guys that take the edge out of the game and get us ahead of the game and get us comfortable. It makes a big difference in finals, I feel.

A feeling like no other ❤️🏆#WTC25 #AUSvSA pic.twitter.com/wdUnfL9K6k

— ICC (@ICC) June 14, 2025

Q: Aidan, obviously you were disappointed to get out but, there were just six runs to win, the crowd was chanting your name…did you take all that in? That must be an incredible feeling…

AM: I wish I could have. That's me being me. When I get out, I'm always angry. I wish I could have, but at least looking at the building in front was pretty special. And then naturally the walk up was incredibly special. So at least there's one or two memories from that.

A clutch knock that created history for South Africa 🫡

More from the Player of the Match of the #WTC25 Final ➡️ https://t.co/igwdklHQC5 pic.twitter.com/u3etZSp7UJ

— ICC (@ICC) June 15, 2025

Q: Was the word ‘choker’ used during the run-chase? Did you hear it being said in the field…?

AM: It would be great to not have to hear it again, that's for sure. In terms of it motivating you, there's always going to be external things that can motivate you, but it's not your sole purpose for playing. So, to have got the job done and to get rid of that is quite a big thing for this team, I feel.

Q: The partnership of 147 with Temba was took the game away from Australia but it almost never happened. How close was he to retiring at tea on day three with his hamstring strain?

AM: Both his innings were huge. To see his hammy go was obviously a bit worrying. But then we got to tea and we chatted in the changing room. He said he felt like he could keep going. But he wanted to know from my side if the twos that are becoming ones would affect me. So, I said there's no chance. It's about partnership, staying out there for long, getting the ball even softer, even older because that's obviously when batting became a lot easier. And that's exactly what he did. And he still actually managed to run twos and threes. There was a lot of adrenaline there but a lot of leadership and character that he showed, too. And again, those maybe not the big, big numbers but the ones that really make a difference and that was Temba in this game for us.

Q: Your record against Australia is remarkable. That was your third hundred against them and your average against them is higher than against any other team. Why do you think that is?

AM: I'm not sure about figures but I think the Australians and South Africans are pretty similar and they play the game in a similar way. Play the game hard, play the game to compete, play the game to win. That brings out the best in both teams. It's just a battle. It's just competition and two teams that really don't have any interest in losing.

Q: There were/are concerns about the future of test cricket, particularly in South Africa. Might this game, and result, help with that?

AM: It's always been my most important and favourite format. Naturally, playing fewer games is not really on us, it's just sort of the cards you get dealt. But it's really important, in my opinion, to keep test cricket as the No 1 in South Africa. We understand all the dynamics that are happening in the cricket world, and that's completely fair. But it's more about the young guy coming through that his main thing is to get a test match baggy and play test match cricket for South Africa. If we can still do that it's fine for however long they play, It's always a different conversation in the world of cricket nowadays, but the No 1 priority should always be to play test cricket. I've always felt that, believed that, and if we can get that back with the younger people coming through, I think we've done well.

Q: Amazing crowd, wasn’t it? So much South African support…

AM: It was awesome! I thought we might have been outnumbered before the game, thinking that quite a few Australians would have made the trip, and there were plenty of them as well. But to have Shosholoza and those sorts of songs ringing around Lord’s is firstly very different to the normal Lord’s, but very awesome for us as South Africans to hear. Everyone came out, supported us, made the effort. Even when we got behind the eight ball, they were fully invested. Yeah, the fans have been through thick and thin with us, so I think it's just as special for them.

Q: Right from 2014 when you captained the under-19 team to the World Cup, you seem to play best on the biggest stages. True?

AM: I'm not sure about that, I got a duck in the first inning. It’s weird - I just think it's desperation to win, to be honest. I've said it recently that I'm not here to chase numbers and stats and things like that. I really just want to win stuff for South Africa now. It's quite a nice place to be in as a player because your full buy-in is towards the team and your full care is towards everyone in the changing room and that's what you try to take care of and if things work out then great but the personal milestones and stuff like that will never be a thing now.

Q: It's an interesting measurement of the quality of your innings that every one of the Australians seemed to congratulate you on your walk back to the pavilion. Were you aware of that in your gloom?

AM: Yeah, you notice it for sure. Obviously, great touch from their side. There’d been quite a bit of banter they had on the field. So yeah, all’s well that ends well, I guess, it’s always nice to be appreciated from the opposition.

Q: You had a quick beer with someone in the crowd afterwards…

AM: That was one of my mates from school. He wanted me to come over and I said, Flip man, I can't, it's too busy, it's chaos. And then he was like, well, here's a beer. And I was like, OK, I'm in. So, I've had my first one for today and I'm pretty sure there'll be a few more.

Aiden Markram enjoying beer with his schoolmate after winning the WTC 2025.pic.twitter.com/ZS7eFim5Uj

— Farrago Abdullah Parody (@abdullah_0mar) June 15, 2025

South African captain Temba Bavuma described his team’s emotional five-wicket victory against Australia in the final of the World Test Championship at Lord’s on Saturday as a “…massive, massive trophy” for him, the team and the country.

“The senior players, Aiden, myself, KG and Kesh, this connects us, this is what we've always wanted to do. We recognise that the sun shines on us and we have the responsibility of doing something that has never been done before.

“I heard it's 26 or 27 years that we’ve been trying to win an ICC trophy, so to be a part of that history is massive in a lot of ways. And we hope that this could be the start of something, that there could be more. It's a massive, massive trophy,” Bavuma said.

The inevitable comparisons with the success of rugby’s Springboks were also embraced by cricket’s captain: “The biggest thing I admire about their success is how they've embraced what being South African actually means. South Africa, we're unique in a lot of ways. Our present and future is shaped by our past,” Bavuma said.

“The way they've gone about it, to capture the hearts of everyone, has really made us love them. Us within cricket, that's something that we've spoken about, to really do something special. For the country, it's a chance for us to rejoice in something, for us to kind of forget about our issues and really come together,” Bavuma said.

The captain tried hard to deflect post-match attention from himself back to the team but it has not been a smooth journey for the 35-year-old who admitted that the national captaincy had never been an ambition as a young player. He would have been happy simply silencing the doubters about his place in the team – but even that took many years.

“I guess this is a moment to be recognised as more than just a black African cricketer, to be seen as someone who's, who's done something that the country has wanted for a long time. So, I'll definitely walk around with my, with my chest out. But again, I can only hope that it inspires young kids, the next generation of cricketers and even our country,” Bavuma said.

“nobody can take this away from us, right? Maybe we’ve won over a few doubters. It's not an easy job being captain of South Africa and it’s not a smooth ride being in my shoes, it’s a little crazy at times to, but it’s still somewhat of a privilege to carry those expectations as well as the pressure,” Bavuma said.

On the field Bavuma’s third wicket partnership of 147 with centurion and player-of-the-match, Aiden Markram, will be remembered not just for doing most to win the match but also for the courage Bavuma displayed in continuing to bat with a seriously strained hamstring.

“Yes, I wasn't at a hundred per cent fitness, but I felt I was good enough to at least support Aiden. It was a tough decision but I backed my gut feel. It went against the advice from our management but I was willing to take responsibility for the consequences and I took comfort from the confidence Aiden had in me: he said ‘we need to be there – if we can be there at the end of the (third) day then the game is strongly in our favour.’ So I chose to carry on,” Bavuma said.

Although it is South Africa’s first ICC trophy since the inaugural Champions Trophy in 1998 it is not the first time they have ‘owned’ the test mace. Graeme Smith’s team won the trophy when they claimed the No 1 ranking in 2012 and retained it for over two years. Bavuma is well aware of the record:

“Yes, we've created history, but as a group we'd like to emulate, if not do better than what Graeme’s team did. They’ve set the standard and nobody has reached that standard as of yet. So, in two or three, maybe four years we’d like to have victories in India and Pakistan, do a lot more. You know, we've only had two years,” said a smiling Proteas captain.

It is easy to be magnanimous in victory – less so in defeat – but Australian captain, Pat Cummins, gave due credit to opposite number Temba Bavuma and man-of-the-match Aiden Markram after South Africa completed a hard-fought, emotional five-wicket victory in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s on Saturday.

“I thought the way he (Bavuma) played was fantastic. He gave us that half chance early on (dropped at slip by Steve Smith on two) but then didn't give us another look until he got out. He had a big partnership with Aiden, so I thought he played really well,” Cummins said.

“In terms of leading, it's always pretty hard unless you're playing underneath someone to judge them so I don't know about his captaincy but, from the outside, he looked good.”

The Australian captain also had some strong words for those who doubted the veracity of South Africa’s route to the final and wheather they were ‘worthy’ champions having reached Lord’s without playing either of England or Australia in the two-year cycle of ‘league’ matches:

“In terms of the way they made it here, they made it fair and square - everyone has a slightly different route to make the final but they absolutely deserve to make the final and showed why they are very deserving champions,” Cummins said.

As for Markram’s heroic 136 which anchored the Proteas’ fourth innings run chase towards 282 – the highest total of the match – Cummins was once again full of praise:

“He was pretty hard to dislodge. He batted really well and kept the scoreboard ticking over as well, which can be frustrating. A few of us have played alongside him in IPL and he’s very well respected, he's a good man, Aiden. So yeah, unfortunately for us, he kind of made it look pretty easy out there and just built a big innings. We threw a fair bit at him but he had an answer for everything.”

South Africa became Test Champions of the world with a hard-fought and emotional five-wicket victory against Australia on the fourth morning of the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord’s on Saturday.

Aiden Markram resumed on 102 with the Proteas on 213-2 chasing a target 282 and completed the innings of a lifetime with a 135 compiled from 207 balls over six hours as the remaining 69 runs were gradually ticked off for the loss of three wickets as the pressure mounted with every dot ball and single.

Markram punched a length delivery from Australian captain Pat Cummins to the cover boundary and pulled another through midwicket but they were the only boundaries in the first 100 minutes of the session until David Bedingham played the shot of the day, a glorious on-drive against Cummins.

Australia’s bowlers fought doggedly to scramble back into the contest and forced the batsmen to earn every run but the South Africans, led by the imperious Markram, refused to buckle under the pressure and stayed calm until the end.

Captain Temba Bavuma added just a single to his overnight score of 65 before edging Cummins to ‘keeper Alex Carey but his partnership of 147 with Markram did the vast majority of the heavy-lifting in an extraordinary run chase and will be remembered as amongst the best in his country’s Test history.

𝐒𝐎𝐔𝐓𝐇 𝐀𝐅𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀 𝐀𝐑𝐄 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐎𝐏 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐋𝐃 🇿🇦🏆#SSCricket | #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/gj9MG9nfBS

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 14, 2025

Tristan Stubbs was content to play a subservient, supporting role to Markram with an obdurate eight runs from 43 balls before Mitchell Starc bowled him with a wonderful bail-trimmer but 30-year-old Bedingham (21*) looked calm and nerveless although he was probably neither.

Josh Hazlewood took the second new ball and bowled full and straight to Markram only to be whipped away to the midwicket boundary to bring the target down to 10 runs. The next delivery was clipped into the same region for three more runs and suddenly the target was down to single figures.

Markram walks off after one of the greatest Lord's innings in Test cricket 👏👏

📺 Stream #WTC25 on DStv: https://t.co/rM90YyQxaw pic.twitter.com/eHyQ2BIJPN

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 14, 2025

But with just six runs needed Markram again flicked Hazlewood towards square leg where Travis Head hung onto a dicing catch and his epic, triumphant and memorable innings was over. Utterly chanceless until that point, Markram was clearly disappointed at not finishing the job but it was a measure of the quality of his performance that every single one of the Australians ran to congratulate him as he walked towards the pavilion.

History for South Africa 🤩🇿🇦

📺 Stream #WTC25 on DStv: https://t.co/rM90YyQxaw pic.twitter.com/slOs8aM6DS

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 14, 2025

It was left to wicket keeper Kyle Verreynne (7*) to score the winning runs but Markram and Bavuma will be remembered as the heroes with the bat although their runs would have been futile without the Kagiso Rabada’s match figures of 9-110.

SOUTH AFRICA: Temba Bavuma (capt), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.

AUSTRALIA: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

Following decades of falling agonisingly short of success, South African cricket sits on the cusp of a first major triumph with 69 runs needed to win the World Test Championship at Lord’s on Saturday.

South Africa have eight wickets in hand and are now overwhelming favourites to finish off the job, and take the title away from champions Australia, who had set them a daunting fourth innings target of 282 in the final on Friday.

Led by Aiden Markram’s unbeaten century, they doggedly chased down the runs and will be looking to get over the line when action resumes on day four on Saturday.

But, at the same time, the Class of 2025 will be only too aware that past South African teams have been labelled ‘chokers’ for consistently coming up short when victory is in sight.

Therefore, the first thing coach Shukri Conrad said to Markram and captain Temba Bavuma after their unbeaten 143-run partnership on Friday was to ensure they stuck to their usual routine.

“Don't change a thing. Tomorrow morning, come and do the same warm up that you do every day. Just the same processes,” he told them.

Assistant coach Ashwill Prince was determined not to get too excited about the potential win, even if it is tantalisingly close.

“We obviously understand the magnitude of the situation and what's at stake. But they’ve just got to stay calm and take it in their stride,” he said at the end of Friday’s play.

South African cricket’s reputation comes from a long list of near-misses in World Cup semifinals, including falling foul to a now-discredited rain rule or coming off second best even when the match ended up tied.

Last year they reached their first major final at the Twenty20 World Cup in Barbados, but with only 26 runs needed off the last four overs, fell seven runs short as India snatched an unlikely victory.

For this team, the message has been clear, added Prince.

“Make them believe that they can do it, and then just sort of step out of the way and allow them to go and do it,” he said.

“But there is a very right bond in that change room. They are willing each other over the line,” Prince added.

Aiden Markram’s eighth test century (102*) and his unbroken partnership of 143 with captain Temba Bavuma (65*) at Lord’s on Friday led South Africa to 213-2 in pursuit of 282 to beat Australia and become test Champions of the world with ‘just’ another 69-runs required on the fourth morning.

“History beckons, but it’s business as usual tomorrow,” cautioned assistant coach Ashwell Prince.

“There was great joy in the change room for Aiden’s hundred and the partnership with Temba is right up there in the history of South African cricket, but the job is not yet done,” Prince said.

An eventful #WTC25 Final day 3⃣ of grit and fightback in the Ultimate Test at Lord's 👊#SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/VYJPIYudlQ

— ICC (@ICC) June 13, 2025

📸 @HardCricketpix pic.twitter.com/rQhTGxGNuB

— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) June 13, 2025

On a day of deep emotions it was the spectators and their support for South Africa which stood out to many of the players: “As batters you’re pretty zoned in and focused on what you’re doing at the crease but it would have been impossible not to hear them chanting the names of Aiden and Temba, it was amazing to see and hear that.

“There were so many South Africans here but I think the locals and neutrals were also cheering for us, given the history between England and Australia and the fact that there was a bit of beef between them in the Ashes test at this ground a couple of years ago,” Prince said with a smile.

Bavuma’s strained hamstring shortly before tea when he had scored just seven runs left Prince and the medical team a difficult decision to make, a call which Bavuma was, obviously, also involved in.

“We had a big call to make at tea because we weren’t just worried about Temba but the effect it might have on Aiden and disrupting his rhythm if they weren’t able to run the twos and even some quick singles. But it was obviously the right decision, it worked out, didn’t it?” Prince said.

“Their partnership was right up there in the history of South African test cricket, especially if we get the job done. It will be massive, not just for the team but for the whole country and what we are trying to achieve in test cricket.

“History beckons, yes, but the guys must stick to their processes and routines before play – good nights sleep, warm-ups and them a bit more of the same on the field,” Prince said.

Wiaan Mulder, meanwhile, confirmed that there had been a clear and conscious change of approach in the second innings compared to the first when the Proteas meandered to 138 all out in 57 overs.

“We had to go for it, whatever the target was, so that freed us up. And there was a lot less fear of failure. We basically looked to score every ball rather than defend.” 

Mulder, who limped to six runs from 44 balls in the first innings, added a bustling 27 from 50 during a second-wicket stand of 61 with Markram of which he could be proud.

“They're going to bowl you good balls, you have to punish the bad ones. No 3 is new for me, but I hope that if I bat with intent I can get a lot more runs.”

Mulder had nothing but praise for the partnership which followed his dismissal: “Those guys have been through a lot of adversity in the last couple of years, you could see they were pushing themselves out there, two people who put South African cricket first.”

Aiden Markram scored a stunning, unbeaten 102 and shared an unbroken third wicket partnership of 143 with Temba Bavuma (65*) as South Africa seized control of the World Test Championship final against Australia, reaching 213-2 by the close of the third day on Friday chasing a target of 282 for victory. 

They require another 69 runs for victory on the fourth morning.

South Africa rally back on Day Three 🇿🇦🔝

Build-up for Day Four starts at 11:00 (CAT) on Saturday ⏭️#SSCricket | #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/AXwskwdEL6

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 13, 2025

Markram’s eighth test century anchored the run chase while captain Bavuma, who strained his hamstring when he’d scored just seven, offered support of the highest and bravest quality in reaching a potentially crucial 65 from 121 balls with five fours despite struggling to run between the wickets.

📸 @HardCricketpix pic.twitter.com/rQhTGxGNuB

— Lord's Cricket Ground (@HomeOfCricket) June 13, 2025

Markram was at his sublime best, playing to his strengths on the off-side with cover drives, late cut shots and powerful backfoot punches against spinner Nathan Lyon (18-3-51-0) collecting 11 fours from 159 balls faced.

When he reached his century with a clipped four off his toes to the midwicket boundary against Josh Hazlewood he removed his helmet and was unable, and probably unwilling, to prevent the tears rolling down his cheeks.

Aiden Markram is on the Lord's Honours Board 💯✨#SSCricket | #WTC25 pic.twitter.com/mwUkxFKlOK

— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 13, 2025

South Africa require just another 69 runs on the fourth morning with eight wickets in hand but there they were taking nothing for granted: “Business as usual tomorrow,” cautioned assistant coach Ashwell Prince.

“Great joy for Aiden’s hundred and the partnership with Temba is right up there in the history of South African cricket, but the job is not yet done,” Prince said.

It's a captain's knock from Bavuma 😤🇿🇦

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Ryan Rickelton (6) was dismissed early edging a full-blooded drive against a Mitchell Starc off stump half volley to keeper Alex Carey but a second-wicket stand of 61 between Markram and Wiaan Mulder calmed South Africa’s nerves – and those of a majority SA-supporting crowd.

Mulder’s defensive inactivity in the first innings (six runs from 44 balls) made way for a bustling, proactive 27 from 50 balls with five driven boundaries before an innocuous Starc delivery elicited a miscued drive to Marnus Labuschagne at cover.

Markram was bristling with energy from the first ball, driving Starc and Josh Hazlewood to the cover boundary and punching offspinner Lyon repeatedly through the off-side while tucking the vaunted pace trio off his pads for legside singles.

Bavuma was dropped on two by Steve Smith standing at a ‘forward’ second slip position in front of the ‘keeper in order to counter the low bounce which has resulted in so many edges falling short of the cordon for both teams.

Earlier, South Africa endured a deeply frustrating morning as Starc compiled a brilliant innings of 58 not out to help Australia post a second innings total of 207 having started the day on 144-8.

What a time to bring up your eleventh Test fifty 👏👏

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Captain Pat Cummins admitted overnight that he would “like another 20 or 30 runs” from the tailenders but the last three batsmen more than doubled that by adding 63 in the two hours before lunch.

Kagiso Rabada (4-59) claimed his ninth wicket of the match when he trapped Lyon lbw for two with the 16th ball of the day but the excellent Starc added a remarkable 59 for the last wicket with an obdurate Hazlewood whose 17 spanned 53 deliveries before he drove part-time spinner Markram to cover on the stroke of lunch.

𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐓 🇿🇦⭐

KG Rabada is up there with the best in the game 🔝

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— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) June 13, 2025

Rabada claimed 5-51 on the first day to help dismiss Australia for 212 but Cummins was even better on the second with 6-28 as South Africa crumbled to 138 in reply.

But the twists and subplots of test cricket were much in evidence when Australia batted again as they crashed to 73-7 leading by just 147 runs overall.

“History beckons, maybe, but we all know the job isn’t done until it’s done,” Prince said.

SOUTH AFRICA: Temba Bavuma (capt), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.

AUSTRALIA: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.