Thu Jun 12 22:31:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Cummins Demolishes Proteas, Shatters Records in WTC Final at Lord’s**

**LONDON -** Australian captain Pat Cummins delivered a historic performance on Thursday at Lord’s Cricket Ground, leading his team to a commanding position in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. Cummins’ sensational spell of fast bowling yielded a remarkable 6 wickets for just 28 runs, single-handedly dismantling the South African batting lineup for a paltry 138.

This outstanding display not only secured a crucial 74-run first-innings lead for Australia but also propelled Cummins into the record books. He became the eighth-highest wicket-taker for Australia in Test cricket, reaching the milestone of 300 wickets in only 68 matches. This feat marked his 14th five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

Speaking after the day’s play, Cummins expressed his satisfaction: “It’s great, got some family as well here, which is nice. Came out after lunch with them looking good and bowled well. Pretty happy to have a decent lead at the moment. It’s way more than I could have asked for…When the ball is soft, it’s easier to bat but it still feels like the odd ball is nipping, feel we bowled well.”

Cummins’ remarkable figures shattered a 33-year-old record previously held by England’s Bob Willis, who had taken 6/101 against India at Lord’s in 1992. The Aussie captain now proudly claims the best bowling figures by a captain at the historic venue.

Adding to his accolades, Cummins became the first Australian captain and the only captain overall to secure a five-wicket haul in an ICC tournament knockout or final. Under his leadership, he has accumulated 15 wickets in ICC finals and knockout matches, further solidifying his reputation as a clutch performer.

The Hindu
June 13, 2025

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