Sat Jun 14 11:46:37 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

South Africa has defeated Australia by 5 wickets in the World Test Championship final held at Lord’s, ending their 27-year wait for a major ICC title. After electing to field, South Africa dismissed Australia for 212, with Rabada taking 5 wickets. South Africa struggled in their first innings, scoring only 138, giving Australia a 74-run lead. In the second innings, Australia were bowled out for 207, with Rabada again taking 4 wickets. South Africa successfully chased the target of 282, with Aiden Markram scoring a match-winning century (136) and Temba Bavuma contributing 66.

**News Article:**

**South Africa Clinch World Test Championship Title After Thrilling Victory Over Australia**

**London, June 14, 2025** – South Africa has emerged victorious in the World Test Championship final, defeating Australia by 5 wickets in a captivating match held at Lord’s Cricket Ground. The win marks the end of a 27-year drought for a major ICC title for the Proteas, sparking jubilant celebrations worldwide.

After winning the toss and electing to field, South Africa’s bowlers, led by Kagiso Rabada (5/51) and Marco Jansen (3/49), restricted Australia to 212 in their first innings. Steve Smith (66) and Beu Webster (72) offered the only significant resistance.

However, South Africa faltered in their response, managing only 138. Australian captain Pat Cummins was instrumental, claiming 6 wickets for just 28 runs.

Australia, leading by 74 runs, aimed to capitalize but were once again undone by Rabada, who took 4/59 in the second innings. Lungi Ngidi supported him well with 3/38. Despite a late-order partnership between Mitchell Starc (58) and Josh Hazlewood, Australia were dismissed for 207, setting South Africa a target of 282.

The chase proved to be a nail-biting affair. Early wickets fell, but a brilliant 144-run partnership between Aiden Markram and Captain Temba Bavuma steadied the ship. While Bavuma fell for 66 on the fourth day of play, Markram continued to anchor the innings, eventually reaching a magnificent century (136). Despite a few nervous moments towards the end, Bedingham guided South Africa across the line, securing a historic victory.

“This is an incredible moment for South African cricket,” said an elated Captain Temba Bavuma after the match. “The team showed tremendous character and determination throughout the tournament, and this victory is a testament to their hard work and dedication.”

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