Intense Day 2 at WTC Final 2025: Australia and South Africa Battle It Out

Day 2 Highlights of the WTC Final 2025

The second day of the WTC Final 2025 between Australia and South Africa was filled with tension, as another 14 wickets fell. Australia started strong, led by Pat Cummins, who claimed four wickets after lunch, bowling South Africa out for just 138 runs and establishing a 74-run lead. He effectively broke the vital partnership between Bavuma and Bedingham early in the day.

South Africa retaliated fiercely. After Australia began their innings at 28 without loss, Rabada struck twice in a single over, dismissing Khawaja and Green. Ngidi, who had struggled in the first innings, made a comeback by taking the wickets of Smith, Webster, and Cummins at crucial moments.

Australia found themselves in trouble at 73 for 7. However, a significant partnership of 61 runs between Carey and Starc helped stabilize the innings, allowing Australia to finish the day with a lead of over 200 runs, setting the stage for an exciting Day 3.

Australia's Resilience Amidst Collapse

Despite a shaky start in their second innings, Australia managed to build a solid lead against South Africa in the WTC Final. The South African bowlers posed serious challenges, leaving Australia struggling at 73 for 7 with wickets falling quickly.

Fortunately, an essential eighth-wicket partnership between Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc turned the tide for Australia. The pair added 61 crucial runs, providing a much-needed boost to the team's morale.

Carey played a pivotal role, scoring 43 runs off 50 balls before being dismissed by Kagiso Rabada. Thanks to this recovery, Australia reached 144 for 8, extending their overall lead to 218 runs as the day concluded. A few more runs from the tail could further strengthen their position in the quest to retain their Test Championship title.