In a historic moment for South African cricket, the team ended a 27-year gap without an ICC trophy by triumphing over Australia by five wickets in a gripping World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s on Saturday. The win sparked emotional scenes, highlighted by Keshav Maharaj’s heartfelt tears during a post-match conversation with former captain Graeme Smith.
Maharaj’s performance in the final was modest, as he took just one wicket and scored seven runs in the first innings. Nevertheless, the importance of the victory deeply moved him, making it a poignant moment for cricket enthusiasts around the globe.
South Africa began the fourth day needing 69 runs to win, resuming play at 213 for 2. They successfully chased down the target, concluding at 282 for 5—a feat that ranks as the second-highest successful chase in Test history at the esteemed venue.
Aiden Markram emerged as the standout performer, converting his overnight score of 102 into a well-deserved 136, anchoring the innings for over six hours. His dismissal came with just six runs remaining, but it hardly disrupted South Africa’s momentum, as Kyle Verreynne sealed the victory with a stunning drive through the covers, igniting jubilant celebrations both on the field and in the stands.
Despite a vigorous effort from Australia, which included exhausting their reviews early and utilizing the new ball, they could not break through South Africa’s determined batting lineup on a pitch that increasingly favored the batsmen. Captain Temba Bavuma contributed a solid 66 runs, pairing with Markram for a vital 143-run partnership the previous day. Even as South Africa lost wickets—including Bavuma edging behind, Tristan Stubbs bowled for 8, and Markram caught at midwicket—the team maintained their composure.
In a display of sportsmanship, the Australian players congratulated Markram as he exited the field to a rousing ovation, recognizing his pivotal role in a momentous day for South African cricket.