Can South Africa Maintain Their Dominance Against Australia at Lunch?
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Synopsis
In the thrilling opening of the <b>2025 ICC World Test Championship Final</b>, South Africa's bowlers dominated Australia, leaving them struggling at <b>67/4</b>. Will they maintain this pressure as the match unfolds? Dive into the highlights of this intense cricket showdown.
Key Takeaways
- Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada both took two wickets.
- Australia was reduced to 67/4 at lunch.
- South Africa's decision to bowl first proved effective.
- Steve Smith remains a key player for Australia.
- The first session was dominated by South African bowlers.
London, June 11 (NationPress) Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada each claimed two wickets, helping South Africa restrict Australia to 67/4 in 23.2 overs at lunch on the opening day of the 2025 ICC World Test Championship Final held at the iconic Lord’s on Wednesday.
From the moment South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma won the toss and opted to bowl first under overcast conditions, the fast bowlers executed their strategy exceptionally, maintaining tight lines and lengths while extracting significant movement. This approach paid dividends as both Jansen and Rabada collected key wickets. Coupled with some outstanding catching, the first session truly belonged to the Proteas.
With Steve Smith still at the crease on 26 not out and more batting to come, Australia will aim to recover from the early collapse and apply pressure back on a strong South African bowling attack in the second session.
Rabada and Jansen quickly found their rhythm, keeping Australia under pressure. Rabada struck in the seventh over, dismissing Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green in just four balls. He capitalized on Khawaja’s edge, leading to a catch at first slip, as Khawaja fell for a 20-ball duck.
Rabada then drew an edge from Green, caught low by third slip, marking Green's return to Test cricket after nearly a year with just four runs. Lungi Ngidi, back in Test action after ten months, alongside Wiaan Mulder, maintained pressure on Smith and Labuschagne.
Although Smith managed a few boundaries, South Africa remained relentless. Labuschagne edged one from Jansen, resulting in a catch behind. Just before lunch, Jansen struck again by getting Travis Head caught down the leg side, concluding a superb session for South Africa.
Brief scores:
Australia: 67/4 in 23.2 overs (Steve Smith 26 not out, Marnus Labuschagne 17; Kagiso Rabada 2-9, Marco Jansen 2-27) against South Africa
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize that South Africa's strategic bowling performance set the tone for the match. The early wickets have put Australia on the back foot, but the game is far from over. Australia's resilience will be tested in the upcoming sessions.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who bowled well for South Africa?
Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada each took two crucial wickets, helping South Africa dominate the first session.
What was the score at lunch?
At lunch, Australia was at 67 for 4 in 23.2 overs.
Where is the match being held?
The match is being held at Lord's in London.
What is the significance of this match?
This match is the final of the 2025 ICC World Test Championship, showcasing the top teams in Test cricket.
Who is the captain of South Africa?
The captain of South Africa is Temba Bavuma.
