South Africa Crowned World Test Champions

South Africa defeated Australia by five wickets to clinch the ICC World Test Championship 2025, marking a historic moment in Proteas cricket.

Chasing a challenging target of 282 on the fourth day, South Africa completed their second innings at 282 for 5, with Aiden Markram leading the charge in spectacular fashion. The right-hander was named Player of the Match for his brilliant 136-run knock, which laid the foundation for a composed and confident run chase.

A Tale of Two Innings

Australia won the early exchanges after putting up 212 in their first innings, thanks to Beau Webster’s 72 and Steve Smith’s 66. South Africa struggled in reply, bowled out for just 138, with Australian skipper Pat Cummins shining with figures of 6 for 28.

However, South Africa fought back with the ball. Kagiso Rabada claimed 4 for 59 in Australia’s second innings, while Lungi Ngidi contributed with 3 for 38 to restrict the Aussies to 207, setting up a target of 282.

Markram’s Masterclass

Resuming at 213 for 2 overnight, the Proteas looked composed. Markram anchored the innings beautifully before falling at 276, just six runs short of the target. Temba Bavuma added a crucial 66, while David Bedingham (21 not out) and Kyle Verreynne (4 not out) saw the team home.

Australia’s bowlers tried to hold their ground, with Mitchell Starc finishing with 3 for 66. However, it wasn’t enough to stop the South African march to glory.

Score Summary:

Australia 1st Innings: 212 (Webster 72, Smith 66; Rabada 5-51)
South Africa 1st Innings: 138 (Bedingham 45; Cummins 6-28)
Australia 2nd Innings: 207 (Starc 58*; Rabada 4-59, Ngidi 3-38)
South Africa 2nd Innings: 282/5 (Markram 136, Bavuma 66; Starc 3-66)

Match Officials:

• Umpires: Chris Gaffaney (NZL), Richard Illingworth (ENG)

• TV Umpire: Richard Kettleborough (ENG)

• Match Referee: Javagal Srinath (IND)

Toss:

Won by South Africa

This win marks South Africa's first ICC World Test Championship title, a proud moment for the team and the nation. With grit, resilience, and a touch of brilliance, the Proteas made history at the Home of Cricket.