South Africa Reveals Playing XI for WTC Finals Against Australia
South Africa's Squad Announcement
The South African cricket team has officially announced its lineup for the World Test Championship Finals set to take place against Australia at Lord's on June 11. Lungi Ngidi has made a return to the squad, selected by captain Temba Bavuma as the third fast bowler, joining Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen. Ngidi's inclusion comes as a surprise, replacing Dane Paterson, who had been a more regular feature in recent Test matches for the Proteas.
Team Composition and Strategy
🇿🇦 Proteas Team Announcement 🇿🇦
— Werner (@Werries_) June 10, 2025
1. Markram
2. Rickelton
3. Mulder
4. Bavuma
5. Stubbs
6. Bedingham
7. Verreynne
8. Jansen
9. Maharaj
10. Rabada
11. Ngidi pic.twitter.com/di2vwznYxI
Ngidi last played a Test match in 2024 against the West Indies in Port of Spain, where he managed to take one wicket in the first innings but went wicketless in the second. This has led to discussions about whether Bavuma might consider Tony de Zorzi, an opener known for his potential. With Keshav Maharaj's availability uncertain, questions arise about his inclusion in the team. Critics wonder if Ngidi, who hasn't participated in a Test since August 2024, should be prioritized over Paterson, who has been performing well in recent outings.
Despite these concerns, South Africa continues to place its faith in Maharaj's left-arm spin capabilities. The decision to select Tristan Stubbs over de Zorzi and to include Ngidi is based on his height, pace, and ability to adapt his bowling style, which could be advantageous even on less favorable pitches.
Confirmed Playing XI
The confirmed playing XI for South Africa is as follows: 1. Markram 2. Rickelton 3. Mulder 4. Bavuma 5. Stubbs 6. Bedingham 7. Verreynne 8. Jansen 9. Maharaj 10. Rabada 11. Ngidi.