Can Aiden Markram Lead South Africa to Victory Against Australia in the WTC Final?
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Synopsis
In an intense showdown at the ICC World Test Championship Final, Aiden Markram stands unbeaten at 49, guiding South Africa towards a challenging target of 188 runs against Australia. With skipper Temba Bavuma's fitness in question, will Markram's performance be enough to secure victory?
Key Takeaways
- Aiden Markram remains key to South Africa's chase.
- South Africa needs 188 runs to win the WTC Final.
- Concerns linger over Temba Bavuma's fitness.
- Mitchell Starc proves effective for Australia.
- South Africa's scoring rate remains healthy.
London, June 13 (NationPress) Aiden Markram demonstrated resilience by remaining unbeaten on 49 off 66 deliveries as South Africa reached 94/2 in 24 overs during their second innings against Australia at tea on Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord's on Friday. They now need 188 runs to claim victory.
With the sun shining and the pitch becoming conducive for batting, Markram showcased his skill with impressive drives, leading a robust batting effort from South Africa in the middle session. Although Mitchell Starc claimed two wickets after scoring a gritty half-century in the first session, the other Australian bowlers failed to trouble the batsmen, who maintained a steady scoring rate.
South Africa will be concerned about captain Temba Bavuma, who experienced significant discomfort after tweaking his hamstring just ten minutes before tea. Bavuma left the field at 11 not out, but his ability to continue batting will depend on a medical assessment during the break.
As in the first innings, Starc made an early breakthrough, sending Ryan Rickelton back to the pavilion with a delivery that edged behind to Alex Carey. Markram, brimming with confidence, executed some exquisite shots, while Wiaan Mulder excelled with cuts, punches, and pulls.
Despite Nathan Lyon nearly bowling Mulder through the gate, the all-rounder capitalized on an overpitched delivery to score a boundary, boosting South Africa's hopes of chasing down the challenging target.
Starc, however, struck again for Australia by forcing Mulder to hit a catch to Marnus Labuschagne at cover. Starc nearly dismissed Bavuma in the 20th over, but Steve Smith couldn't hold on to the catch, leaving him in apparent pain. Smith was subsequently replaced by Sam Konstas to field, while South Africa concluded a successful session with uncertainty surrounding Bavuma's mobility.
Brief scores:
Australia 212 and 207 all out in 65 overs (Mitchell Starc 58, Alex Carey 43; Kagiso Rabada 4-59, Lungi Ngidi 3-38) lead South Africa 138 and 94/2 in 24 overs (Aiden Markram 49; Mitchell Starc 2-37) by 188 runs
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight South Africa's resilience in the face of adversity. Aiden Markram's performance is commendable, and the team's ability to chase down a challenging target reflects their determination. However, the concern surrounding Temba Bavuma's fitness adds an element of unpredictability to the match's outcome.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Aiden Markram's score in the match?
Aiden Markram scored an unbeaten 49 runs off 66 balls.
How many runs does South Africa need to win?
South Africa requires 188 more runs for victory.
What is the current score of South Africa?
At tea on Day 3, South Africa was at 94/2 in their second innings.
Who is the captain of South Africa?
The captain of South Africa is Temba Bavuma.
Where is the ICC World Test Championship Final being held?
The final is being held at Lord's in London.
