London, June 11, 2025 – The World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 kicked off with a bowler-dominated spectacle at Lord’s, where 14 wickets tumbled on Day 1. South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, won the toss and elected to bowl, setting the stage for a dramatic clash against Australia.
Australia’s batting lineup struggled early against South Africa’s pace attack. Kagiso Rabada struck twice in the seventh over, removing Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green, while Marco Jansen dismissed Marnus Labuschagne, leaving Australia at 18/3. Steve Smith (66) and Beau Webster (72) provided resistance, with Smith surpassing Viv Richards and Allan Border for the most Test runs by an overseas batter at Lord’s (591). However, Rabada’s fiery spell, including a five-wicket haul, triggered a collapse. Australia slumped from 190/5 to 212 all out, losing their last five wickets for just 20 runs. Rabada’s 332nd Test wicket saw him overtake Allan Donald’s record.
In response, Australia’s bowlers hit back hard. Mitchell Starc removed Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton early, while Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood struck to leave South Africa reeling at 25/3. Bavuma, cautious and scoreless off 31 balls, survived alongside a struggling batting unit. By stumps, South Africa were 43/4, trailing by 169 runs.
With pacers thriving on a lively Lord’s pitch, Day 2 promises more intensity as both teams fight for control in this gripping WTC Final. Fans can follow the action live on major sports broadcasters.
