Temba Bavuma Embraces South Africa’s ‘Story’ Ahead of Emotional WTC Final at Lord’s

Temba Bavuma approaches his cricket with a rare sincerity. His thoughtful, patient, and often emotional manner becomes even more apparent when he addresses the media.

His emotions were on full display as he discussed the chance to become the first South African captain to win a major world title, excluding the 1998 ICC Knockouts.

Bavuma emphasized how simply reaching Lord’s for the World Test Championship Final is a chapter in both his personal “story” and that of his team.

He used the word “story” repeatedly, highlighting how much the moment meant to him, even amid doubts from critics who questioned the team’s qualifications for the final. The narrative surrounding South Africa’s route to this point — “Who did they beat after all?” — has persisted.

Facing Their Historic Foe

Now, they face an opponent that has often bested them in crucial matches — Australia. The baggage of past failures in knockout games looms large. But this time, there’s more than national pride at stake.

A win for South Africa would represent more than just a victory. It could influence future discussions about the structure of Test cricket, especially for nations like theirs that lack the financial muscle of the richer boards.

At a time when global scheduling debates threaten the traditional format, a South African win may reignite support for economically weaker cricket nations.

Even if Bavuma and his squad aren’t fully aware of the broader significance, it adds an extra dimension to this final. Perhaps this added weight will help them finally overcome the legacy of near-misses.

Australia’s Steady March Under Cummins

Australia, led by Pat Cummins, continue their strong run in the red-ball format. After winning the inaugural WTC final in 2023, they’re back with largely the same squad — though this time arguably even hungrier.

Cummins, while not overly emotional, has always been forthright about challenges, and his team shares that mindset.

This final reflects the strength of the Cummins era, as Australia aims to add yet another trophy to their collection.

Match Details and Conditions

When: June 11-16, 2025, 10:30 hrs Local Time, 19:30 AEST, 15:00 hrs IST
Where: Lord’s, London

With a rather dry summer interrupted by recent rain, conditions have become a major talking point. Although rain had threatened preparation in recent weeks, clearer days leading up to the match have allowed both sides to train well. The pitch looks dry and brown, unusual for Lord’s in June.

This could favour batsmen, but the quality of both bowling attacks and possible weather interruptions could still create a balanced contest.

South Africa’s Line-Up

Watching pre-match practice gave away clues about South Africa’s playing XI. Lungi Ngidi was the centre of attention, working closely with bowling consultant Stuart Broad, revealing his spot as the third seamer.

The coaching staff’s interest in retaining Tristan Stubbs meant Wiaan Mulder would slot in at No. 3, strengthening the batting depth.

South Africa XI:
Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

Australia’s Adjustments

Australia’s batting order features two players in new roles. Marnus Labuschagne steps up as a temporary opener, while Cameron Green returns at No. 3, a spot he’s rarely occupied in first-class cricket.

Labuschagne has adjusted well, particularly during practice sessions in England. His elevation allows Australia to keep Beau Webster at No. 6, while Alex Carey may bat ahead in the order, offering a fifth bowling option.

The only personnel change from the 2023 WTC final is Josh Hazlewood coming in for Scott Boland. Having recovered from an IPL-related niggle, Hazlewood proved his fitness by steadily increasing his workload in London.

Australia XI:
Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Voices Ahead of the Final

“This is the ultimate form of cricket. Just bringing that focus back to red ball cricket. It could change the landscape of cricket in South Africa.” – Lungi Ngidi, on what a win at Lord’s could mean.

“There are some guys where you generally say you’ve done nothing wrong, don’t change a thing, and that’s Scott and he’s just really unfortunate to miss out.” – Pat Cummins, on dropping Scott Boland for Hazlewood.