Australia Struggles Against South Africa in World Test Championship Final
Australia's Tough Start in the WTC Final
On June 11, during the World Test Championship Final 2025 at Lord's, Australia faced a challenging morning as their top-order batsmen struggled significantly. The defending champions found themselves in a tough spot against South Africa, who opted to bowl first after winning the toss, taking advantage of the overcast conditions and a fresh pitch that favored seam and swing.
The South African bowlers, particularly Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, exploited the conditions effectively, generating sharp movement and bounce that troubled the Australian batsmen. The pitch's lateral movement and uneven bounce exposed the technical weaknesses of Australia's top order, leading to quick dismissals before lunch.
Top Order's Struggles Under Pressure
Rabada and Jansen proved to be formidable opponents for Australia's top order, who were unable to cope with the pace and swing. Both bowlers struck early, taking crucial wickets in the first session. The Australian batsmen struggled to read the swing, often playing away from their bodies.
Rabada, returning from a one-match ban, led the attack impressively, dismissing opener Usman Khawaja for a duck after a sharp edge was caught at second slip. In the same over, he also removed Cameron Green for just 4 runs, leaving Australia in a precarious position at 16/2.
Kagiso Rabada delivers big time for South Africa with two wickets in an over 🔥Catch the action live on our official broadcasters here ➡ https://t.co/oas2Rsdptj#Cricket #CricketReels #WTC25
Following Rabada's early breakthroughs, Marco Jansen capitalized on the conditions, dismissing Marnus Labuschagne, who edged a defensive shot to the wicketkeeper. Labuschagne's dismissal for 17 further compounded Australia's woes. Jansen later took the wicket of Travis Head, who edged a delivery while attempting to flick it, leaving Australia at 67/4 at lunch.
Questions Raised About Australia's Preparedness
The first session highlighted Australia's top-order vulnerabilities, particularly for Khawaja and Labuschagne, who struggled to adapt to the challenging conditions. Their inability to adjust their technique and mindset against the South African pace attack was evident.
Rabada and Jansen's disciplined bowling exposed Australia's lack of readiness to face a new ball under such conditions, suggesting they may have underestimated the lateral movement and bounce available at Lord's. As the team looks to recover, they will depend on Steve Smith and Beau Webster to forge a partnership and stabilize the innings.