South Africa Eyes Historic World Test Championship Title Against Australia
South Africa's Confidence Soars
David Bedingham has expressed that South Africa is on the verge of making history, emphasizing the team's confidence in clinching the World Test Championship (WTC) title. As they approach a significant victory against Australia in the WTC Final 2025, the atmosphere in the camp is charged with optimism.
The match has been a thrilling contest, with both teams showcasing their bowling prowess. Despite some struggles, Australia's lower order managed to stabilize the innings, setting a target exceeding 200 runs. In a press conference, Bedingham remarked,
“We’re very confident. I think the batters will have their plans. But yeah, I think it's an amazing day. And I think when they started batting in their third innings, I think we would have definitely had them or taken them 220-8.”
He further added,
“So, I think you’re very confident and I think there’s a massive belief in this team. We are thrilled about the chance to become world champions. It’s an incredible opportunity, and we’re all very excited. It could go either way, but as a team, we have a lot of belief in the dressing room.”
South Africa's Strong Position
As Day 2 concluded, South Africa had Australia in a precarious position at 144/8 in their second innings, with a lead of 218 runs. Kagiso Rabada (3/44) and Lungi Ngidi (3/35) delivered impressive performances, dismantling Australia's top order and placing South Africa in a commanding position.
Alex Carey (43) and Mitchell Starc (16*) attempted to mount a comeback from the lower order, contributing crucial runs to push their lead beyond 200. However, the momentum remained firmly with South Africa.
Historically, Lord's has seen only four successful chases of over 200 runs in the fourth innings, the latest being England's successful pursuit of 277 against New Zealand in June 2022. South Africa is now on the brink of ending a 27-year ICC title drought, with their last victory dating back to the 1998 Champions Trophy.