South Africa Crowned World Test Champions After 27-Year Wait

South Africa Triumphs Over Australia at Lord's

In a thrilling match at Lord's cricket ground, South Africa has emerged as the new World Test Champions, defeating Australia by five wickets. This victory marks the end of a 27-year title drought for South Africa, while also halting Australia's impressive streak of winning ICC finals, which had lasted for 15 years. Interestingly, despite this win, South Africa does not hold the record for the most losses in ICC finals. That dubious honor belongs to India, which has suffered the most defeats in ICC finals across ODI and T20 formats.

India's Final Losses and Australia's Record

India has faced defeat in seven ICC finals, the most recent being a heartbreaking loss to Australia in the 2023 ODI World Cup held in India. In contrast, Australia, the previous World Test Champions, has lost four ICC finals, while South Africa has only one final defeat, which occurred during the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Markram and Rabada Shine in the Final

Aiden Markram, who initially went out for a duck in the first innings, made a remarkable comeback in the second innings, scoring 136 runs. This performance made him the first South African to achieve a century in an ICC final, playing a pivotal role in the team's success. Captain Temba Bavuma also contributed significantly with 66 runs. On the bowling front, Kagiso Rabada was instrumental, taking five wickets in the first innings and four in the second, effectively dismantling the Australian batting order.

ICC Finals Losses Table