Has the wait finally ended for South Africa?
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Synopsis
South Africa's cricket team has ended a long wait for ICC glory, clinching the WTC title against Australia. This victory not only marks a historic milestone but also showcases the talent and resilience of the players. Dale Steyn and Anjum Chopra celebrate this remarkable achievement, signaling a new era for South African cricket.
Key Takeaways
- South Africa ends a 27-year ICC title drought.
- Aiden Markram shines with a critical 136 runs.
- Kagiso Rabada plays a key role with nine wickets.
- The victory marks a historic moment for South African cricket.
- Fans celebrate a new chapter in cricket history.
New Delhi, June 14 (NationPress) Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn and the ex-captain of the Indian women's cricket team, Anjum Chopra, have extended their congratulations to the Temba Bavuma-led squad for putting an end to their 27-year ICC title drought. They achieved this remarkable feat by defeating Australia by five wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC) final held at Lord's on Sunday.
Steyn expressed his joy over South Africa's first title of the century, sharing his excitement with a single word - 'HOME' - accompanied by a trophy emoji on the social media platform X.
In pursuit of 282 runs, Aiden Markram delivered a crucial performance, scoring 136 runs, including 14 boundaries, which secured South Africa's victory in this significant match. He was honored with the Player of the Match title after having scored a duck in the first innings.
Anjum remarked on X, "34 years! The wait has finally ended. South Africa are rightly CHAMPIONS in an ICC event."
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan also praised the stellar efforts of Kagiso Rabada (who took nine wickets) and Markram for stepping up in this high-stakes red-ball cricket encounter.
"Temba Bavuma's South Africa has made history. Rabada's performance was outstanding. Aiden Markram has not only etched his name on the Lord’s Honours Board but also in the annals of South African cricket," Pathan stated on X.
Starting Day Four at 213/2 and needing 69 runs, the Proteas faced a setback when skipper Bavuma was dismissed early, edging a delivery from Pat Cummins, adding just one to his overnight score of 65. Soon after, Tristan Stubbs was caught off a beautiful delivery from Starc, and Markram, who almost led South Africa to victory, was caught at mid-wicket off Hazlewood with just six runs remaining.
Despite the late pressure from the Australian side, David Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne maintained their composure. Australia ran out of reviews and couldn't break the final partnership. Verreynne scored the winning runs in the 84th over off Starc, igniting jubilant celebrations among South African players and supporters. This victory secures South Africa's place in cricketing history, marking a monumental Test win at the Home of Cricket.
Point of View
This victory for South Africa in the WTC final is not just a sporting achievement but a symbol of resilience and determination. It reflects the nation's spirit and passion for cricket. The triumph is a reminder of the hard work put in by the players and the support from fans, marking a significant chapter in South African cricket history.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How long was South Africa's wait for an ICC title?
South Africa waited for 27 years to win an ICC title.
Who was the captain of the South African team during the WTC final?
The captain of the South African team during the WTC final was Temba Bavuma.
What was Aiden Markram's score in the final?
Aiden Markram scored 136 runs in the final.
Which team did South Africa defeat to win the WTC final?
South Africa defeated Australia by five wickets.
Where was the WTC final held?
The WTC final was held at Lord's.
