Can Australia Extend Their Lead to 100 Despite Rabada's Double Strikes at Tea?
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Synopsis
In an exhilarating day two of the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord's, Australia fought back from Kagiso Rabada's impressive bowling to establish a significant lead. Pat Cummins' remarkable performance and solid partnerships at the crease have set the stage for a thrilling contest. Will Australia maintain this momentum?
Key Takeaways
- Pat Cummins shines with a six-wicket haul.
- Australia leads by 106 runs at tea.
- Kagiso Rabada strikes twice but Australia holds firm.
- Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne are set to build on the lead.
- South Africa struggles to respond to Cummins' bowling prowess.
London, June 12 (NationPress) Despite Kagiso Rabada claiming two wickets, Australia surged their lead beyond 100, reaching 32/2 in 12 overs at tea on day two of the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord's on Thursday.
Australia initially took a 74-run lead, thanks to Pat Cummins' exceptional performance, who secured figures of 6-28 in 18.1 overs, marking his name on the Lord’s honours board and achieving the milestone of 300 Test wickets. Cummins also became the first fast-bowling captain since 1982 to capture a five-wicket haul at Lord's.
As the second session concluded, Australia's lead stood at 106 runs, with Steve Smith (four not out) and Marnus Labuschagne (16 not out) at the crease. The current mace holders are poised to dominate and extend their advantage beyond South Africa's reach.
Australia commenced their second innings positively, with Labuschagne hitting boundaries off both Rabada and Marco Jansen. However, Rabada struck twice again, dismissing Usman Khawaja with a brilliant round-the-wicket delivery, catching his edge and sending him back for six off 23 balls.
Rabada's double strike continued as Cameron Green edged a delivery to the third slip on his second ball, falling for a duck. With Smith and Labuschagne at the crease, Australia appeared in a favorable position in a tightly contested match.
Earlier, after a productive first session where South Africa scored 78 runs despite losing skipper Temba Bavuma, there was hope for narrowing the deficit. However, Cummins' relentless bowling dismantled the rest of the batting lineup.
He received solid backing from his fellow bowlers Mitchell Starc (2-41) and Josh Hazlewood (1-27). Cummins trapped Kyle Verreynne lbw and caught Marco Jansen off his own bowling. He then claimed his fifer by inducing a faint edge from David Bedingham, who was caught behind for 45. Shortly after, Keshav Maharaj was run out, and Cummins completed his six-wicket haul when Rabada was caught at deep mid-wicket, leading to South Africa losing their last five wickets for just 18 runs in 37 balls, giving Australia a significant lead in their quest to retain the WTC mace.
Brief Scores: Australia 212 and 32/2 in 12 overs (Marnus Labuschagne 16 not out; Kagiso Rabada 2-15) lead South Africa 138 in 57.1 overs (David Bedingham 45, Temba Bavuma 36; Pat Cummins 6-28, Mitchell Starc 2-41) by 106 runs
Point of View
It's vital to highlight that Australia's resilience in the face of Rabada's strikes showcases their depth and determination. With Cummins leading from the front, the match remains delicately poised, and every session could tilt the balance. Our commitment is to provide in-depth analysis and coverage of this gripping contest, ensuring our audience stays informed and engaged.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the ICC World Test Championship Final?
As of now, Australia is leading by 106 runs with a score of 32/2 in their second innings after tea on day two.
Who is leading the bowling attack for Australia?
Pat Cummins is leading the bowling attack, having taken 6 wickets for 28 runs in the first innings.
What was Kagiso Rabada's contribution in the match?
Kagiso Rabada has taken two wickets in the second innings, dismissing Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green.
How many Test wickets has Pat Cummins achieved?
Pat Cummins has reached the milestone of 300 Test wickets during this match.
What is the significance of the Lord's honours board?
The Lord's honours board recognizes exceptional individual performances, and Cummins' achievement qualifies him for this honor.
