South Africa has created history in the cricketing world by qualifying for the first-ever World Test Championship final since its inception. The team reached the final of the WTC by virtue of an outstanding performance during the 2023-25 cycle of the WTC, which they topped off with a comprehensive 10-wicket win over Pakistan in the final Test at Centurion.
Jonty Rhodes Elated Over South Africa’s Milestone Achievement
Former South African cricketer Jonty Rhodes praised the national side’s efforts by saying:“I am very happy with the South African cricket team in the World Test Championship final. It is a great effort to get ahead of some of the really strong teams in the world currently. We have never been there before.”
Rhodes highlighted the significance of reaching the final, given the fierce competition from other cricketing powerhouses like India, England, and Australia.
A Journey Filled with Challenges
South Africa’s path to the WTC final was anything but smooth.
Shaky Start
The Proteas began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against India at home. There were questions asked when a second-string South African side, under Neil Brand, toured New Zealand in the second season of the SA20 league. The inexperienced side lost 2-0 and criticism was aimed at the team’s commitment to Test cricket.
Remarkable Comeback
The tide turned when South Africa’s key players returned to the fold. A resurgence followed as the Proteas secured series victories against:
West Indies
Bangladesh
Sri Lanka
Pakistan
Their seven-match winning streak demonstrated their determination and talent, ultimately propelling them to the top of the nine-team WTC points table.
Key Performers in South Africa’s WTC Campaign
South Africa’s success can be attributed to a blend of experienced players and emerging stars.
Veteran Performers:
Kagiso Rabada: He led the bowling attack, and his wickets were at crucial moments.
Aiden Markram: Batting was also very good with solid performances to anchor the innings in tough situations.
Temba Bavuma: The skipper’s leadership and batting contributions came in handy all through the cycle.
Rising Stars:
Marco Jansen: He is a young pacer who can take wickets and also provide runs lower down the order.
Ryan Rickelton: He emerged as a reliable batsman in critical matches.
Tristan Stubbs, Corbin Bosch, and David Bedingham: These young guns came in and made vital contributions in the campaign.
Dominating Victory Over Pakistan
In the final Test against Pakistan at Centurion, South Africa dominated. A clinical performance, marked by outstanding contributions from both bowlers and batsmen alike, led to a 10-wicket victory. This sealed not only the series 2-0 but also confirmed the acceptance of South Africa into the WTC final.
Date and Venue for the WTC Final
South Africa will face Australia in the highly awaited WTC final at the Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 11, 2025. The Proteas, powered by a perfect combination of veteran players and exciting young ones, will look to script history with their maiden WTC title.
This is a new chapter in South African cricket. The team has silenced all its critics and reignited hope in fans by returning strong in the longest format of the game. Momentum will be on the side of South Africa as they would look for a successful end to their WTC journey, which would bring them the coveted trophy.
