South Africa clinched the ICC World Test Championship title in style, defeating Australia by five wickets on Day 4 of the final at Lord’s. Aiden Markram was the hero of the day, anchoring the chase with a brilliant 136 that laid the foundation for a historic win.
Starting the day needing just 79 more runs, South Africa faced early setbacks. Pat Cummins struck first, removing Temba Bavuma, and Mitchell Starc dismissed Tristan Stubbs shortly after, giving Australia a glimmer of hope.
But Markram, with solid support from David Bedingham, kept the scoreboard ticking and steadied the innings. The duo took South Africa to the brink of victory before Markram fell just as the finish line was in sight — caught at mid-wicket off Josh Hazlewood, with only a boundary needed.
It was then left to Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne to wrap things up, guiding South Africa home and sparking celebrations in the dressing room.
Earlier in the match, Australia were bowled out for 207 in their second innings, largely due to a fiery spell from Kagiso Rabada, who finished with four wickets. Lungi Ngidi chipped in with three crucial scalps, especially during a key period on Day 2 that tilted the match in South Africa’s favour.
This victory marks South Africa’s first WTC title, and it came at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground — a fitting stage for a memorable triumph.
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