South Africa were crowned World Test Champions after defeating reigning champions Australia by five wickets in the WTC final on Saturday at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. The Proteas, powered by a scintillating century from Aiden Markram and a composed knock from skipper Temba Bavuma, chased down a daunting target of 282 on day four to secure their first ICC title in 27 years.
The resilient partnership between Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram played a big role in setting up South Africa’s spectacular win. On day three (Friday), Bavuma and Markram led South Africa’s incredible fightback with an epic 143-run stand to propel the side closer to victory. Bavuma notched up a crucial 66 before falling to Pat Cummins on day four. But it was Aiden Markram who took center stage by slamming a composed 136. David Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne were unbeaten on 21 and 4, respectively, as South Africa claimed a sensational win.
Earlier, on day one (Wednesday), South Africa, having won the toss, had opted to bowl first. Their bowlers made early inroads, restricting Australia to 212 in the first innings. Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen were the chief wreckers, sharing eight wickets between them.
In response, South Africa stumbled to 138, thanks to a fiery spell by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, taking six and two wickets, respectively. South Africa’s bowlers, meanwhile, came to the fore once again in Australia's second innings. Rabada and Lungi Ngidi’s pace saw Australia bundled out for 207, setting England a tricky chase of 282 in the fourth innings on a wearing surface.