By Sport South Africa News Desk | June 14, 2025
South Africa stand just 69 runs away from one of their greatest cricketing triumphs — victory in the ICC World Test Championship Final — after a resolute and composed batting performance on Day 3 against defending champions Australia at Lord’s.
Aiden Markram’s unbeaten century and Temba Bavuma’s gritty half-century have placed the Proteas in a commanding position, ending the day on 213 for 2 in pursuit of 282. With eight wickets in hand, the Proteas will resume on Day 4 with history in sight — and a nation holding its breath.
Markram and Bavuma: A Partnership of Purpose
Markram, who ended the day on 102*, played one of the finest innings of his career, blending aggression with maturity. His eighth Test century came under immense pressure, but the right-hander never flinched. From early drives off Pat Cummins to a confident midwicket flick off Josh Hazlewood to bring up three figures, Markram looked in control throughout.
He found an inspired partner in Bavuma, who battled a hamstring injury to contribute an invaluable 65* in a courageous display of leadership. Together, the pair compiled an unbroken 143-run partnership that shifted the momentum of the match squarely in South Africa’s favour. Their running between the wickets was measured, with Bavuma pushing through visible discomfort to keep the scoreboard ticking.
Earlier in the innings, South Africa looked vulnerable when Mitchell Starc removed Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder in a fiery early spell. Starc, fresh off a crucial 58* in Australia’s second innings, looked threatening again with the new ball. But from 70 for 2, South Africa steadied through sheer resolve and clear intent.
Rabada and Starc Shine with the Ball
Before the Proteas’ spirited run chase began, Kagiso Rabada had done the hard yards with the ball. His 4-59 in the second innings brought his match tally to nine wickets, underlining his status as South Africa’s strike weapon. He dismissed Nathan Lyon early on Day 3, leaving Australia at 148 for 9.
However, South Africa were briefly frustrated by a stubborn 59-run 10th-wicket stand between Starc and Hazlewood. Starc’s counterattacking half-century — his 11th in Test cricket — added vital runs and pushed Australia’s lead to a testing 282. The final wicket eventually fell to the unlikely hands of part-time spinner Markram, who had Hazlewood caught for 17.
Smith Injury, Missed Chances
Australia, to their credit, fought hard but were let down by lapses in the field. The most notable came when Steve Smith dropped Bavuma on 2 — a sharp chance that cost Australia dearly. Smith suffered a dislocated finger in the attempt and was taken to hospital for treatment, ruling him out of the remainder of the match.
The pitch at Lord’s, having played with spice over the first two days, eased considerably under clear skies, and South Africa capitalised. While Australia rotated six bowlers, including Lyon and part-timer Travis Head, they could not find a way through the disciplined pair.
The Final Push
As Day 4 dawns, South Africa face both opportunity and pressure. A target of 69 may appear straightforward, but the psychological weight of past ICC tournament near-misses and the ever-dangerous Australian attack means no one in the Proteas camp will take anything for granted.
Still, this team, built on belief and resilience, is well-placed to finally end a 26-year wait for an ICC title — their last coming in 1998. Markram and Bavuma’s stand already feels iconic, a defining moment not only of the match but of an era.
Head coach Shukri Conrad’s pre-match message to his players — “Whatever they set, we’re gonna get” — has found full expression. Now, just 69 runs and one good morning stand stand between South Africa and glory.
South Africa need 69 runs. Australia need 8 wickets. The WTC mace hangs delicately in the balance.
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