Reached the final of the World Test Championship for the first time

South Africa has created history by making it to the final of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25. In the first Test played in Centurion on Sunday, South Africa defeated Pakistan by 2 wickets and secured the ticket to the WTC final. While chasing the target of 148 runs, at one time the host team was on the verge of defeat, but the brilliant partnership of Kagiso Rabada and Marco Johnson led the team to victory.

Rabada, who came at number ten, became the hero.

The South African team was in trouble after losing 8 wickets for 99 runs.

• Kagiso Rabada (31 not out) took up the responsibility and ended Pakistan’s hopes of victory.
• Rabada made a partnership of 51 runs for the ninth wicket with Marco Johnson (16 not out).
• South Africa achieved the target in 39.3 overs.

Captain Temba Bavuma: Spent nervous time in the bathroom

Captain Temba Bavuma shared his nervous moments after the match.

“When we needed 15 runs, I came out of the bathroom. I was quite nervous at lunch time. It was an emotional and difficult moment.”

Bavuma scored a crucial 40 in the match and praised the team after the win, saying:

“This is a big achievement not only for me, but for the entire team and coaching staff. Initially our team was not considered a contender against India and New Zealand. We made our way through hard work. This victory reflects the character of South African cricket.”

South Africa’s dominance on WTC points table

• WTC win percentage: 66.67%
• Test Record:
  • Matches played: 11
  • Win: 7
  • Defeat: 3
  • Draw: 1

South Africa tops the table, while Australia (58.89%) and India (55.88%) are at second and third place respectively.

WTC final: date and venue

• Date: 11-15 June 2025
• Location: London

South Africa has reached the WTC final for the first time, while the race for the second seat continues between India, Australia, and Sri Lanka.

South Africa’s first WTC final entry

This is a historic moment for South Africa. The team could not reach the finals in the first two editions of the WTC, but this time under the leadership of captain Temba Bavuma, the team confirmed its claim with hard work and performance.