The Oval in London has been confirmed as the venue for the 2027 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, which will be played from Wednesday, June 9 to Sunday, June 13. The International Cricket Council (ICC) had announced last year that England would host the next three editions of the World Test Championship Final in 2027, 2029 and 2031, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) responsible for selecting the venue for each title clash. The Oval will host the World Test Championship Final for the second time after previously staging the 2023 final, where Australia defeated India to lift the ICC Test mace.&nbsp;With less than a year remaining before the final, the current World Test Championship cycle is entering a crucial phase, with all nine participating 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan in May, moving to 58.33 percent. Two-time finalists India teams still mathematically in contention for a place in the title clash. Australia lead the standings with an impressive points percentage of 87.50 after winning seven of their first eight Tests. Defending champions South Africa are second with 75 percent, while New Zealand remain close behind on 72.22 percent.&nbsp;Bangladesh have emerged as strong contenders after their 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan in May, moving to 58.33 percent. Two-time finalists India occupy fifth place with 48.15 percent after winning four of their nine Tests, narrowly ahead of Sri Lanka on 41.67 percent. England (24.36%), West Indies (15%) and Pakistan (8.33%) face an uphill task and will need strong performances in the remaining fixtures to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive. The race for qualification will intensify over July and August with several decisive Test series on the calendar. West Indies begin by hosting Pakistan in a two-Test series from July 25, while Australia take on Bangladesh in a two-match series starting August 13.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/youth-are-future-but-maintain-faith-in-the-country-s-institutions-and-government-says-shikhar-dhawan-on-neet-protest-1784798797905">'Youth are future but maintain faith in the country's institutions and government,' says Shikhar Dhawan on NEET protest</a>&nbsp;Attention will then shift to Asia, where Sri Lanka host India in a two-Test series from August 15. Pakistan will also travel to England for a three-Test series stretching across August and September. Speaking on the announcement, ICC General Manager, Events &amp; Operations, Gaurav Saxena, said, “The ICC World Test Championship Final has established itself as one of the most prestigious occasions in the global cricket calendar, bringing together the two best Test teams in the world after two years of sustained excellence and consistency.”&nbsp;&nbsp;"The 2027 World Test Championship Final will hold special significance as cricket celebrates 150 years of Test cricket. The Oval has played a proud role in the history of our sport and has hosted some of its most memorable moments. We look forward to working closely with the ECB to deliver another world-class event that celebrates the enduring legacy of Test cricket and creates lasting memories for fans around the world."&nbsp;ECB MD, Competitions and Major Events, Neil Snowball, added, "We are honoured to be staging the next three ICC World Test Championship Finals in England and Wales, and we're pleased to confirm that The Oval will play host again next year. The 2023 final at The Oval was a huge hit with broadcasters and fans, and I've no doubt that next year's event will be extra special again."&nbsp;The ICC World Test Championship has crowned a different champion in each of its first three editions. New Zealand won the inaugural title in 2021, Australia lifted the trophy in 2023, while South Africa ended their long wait for a major ICC title by winning the championship in 2025.<h2>Check WTC team standings below</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Position</td><td>Team</td><td>Played&nbsp;</td><td>Won&nbsp;</td><td>Lost</td><td>Draw</td><td>DED</td><td>Points</td><td>PCT</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Australia</td><td>8</td><td>7</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>84</td><td>87.50</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>South Africa</td><td>4</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>36</td><td>75.00</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>6</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>52</td><td>72.22</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bangladesh</td><td>4</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>28</td><td>58.33</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>India</td><td>9</td><td>4</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>52</td><td>48.15</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>20</td><td>41.67</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>England</td><td>13</td><td>4</td><td>8</td><td>1</td><td>14</td><td>38</td><td>24.36</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>West Indies</td><td>10</td><td>1</td><td>7</td><td>2</td><td>2</td><td>18</td><td>15.00</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>8</td><td>4</td><td>8.33</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

The Oval has been confirmed as the venue for the 2027 ICC World Test Championship Final. Australia lead the WTC standings as India, South Africa, New Zealand and Bangladesh battle for a place in the title clash

The Oval in London has been confirmed as the venue for the 2027 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, which will be played from Wednesday, June 9 to Sunday, June 13. The International Cricket Council (ICC) had announced last year that England would host the next three editions of the World Test Championship Final in 2027, 2029 and 2031, with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) responsible for selecting the venue for each title clash. The Oval will host the World Test Championship Final for the second time after previously staging the 2023 final, where Australia defeated India to lift the ICC Test mace. With less than a year remaining before the final, the current World Test Championship cycle is entering a crucial phase, with all nine participating 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan in May, moving to 58.33 percent. Two-time finalists India teams still mathematically in contention for a place in the title clash. Australia lead the standings with an impressive points percentage of 87.50 after winning seven of their first eight Tests. Defending champions South Africa are second with 75 percent, while New Zealand remain close behind on 72.22 percent. Bangladesh have emerged as strong contenders after their 2-0 series sweep over Pakistan in May, moving to 58.33 percent. Two-time finalists India occupy fifth place with 48.15 percent after winning four of their nine Tests, narrowly ahead of Sri Lanka on 41.67 percent. England (24.36%), West Indies (15%) and Pakistan (8.33%) face an uphill task and will need strong performances in the remaining fixtures to keep their hopes of reaching the final alive. The race for qualification will intensify over July and August with several decisive Test series on the calendar. West Indies begin by hosting Pakistan in a two-Test series from July 25, while Australia take on Bangladesh in a two-match series starting August 13. Also Read: 'Youth are future but maintain faith in the country's institutions and government,' says Shikhar Dhawan on NEET protest Attention will then shift to Asia, where Sri Lanka host India in a two-Test series from August 15. Pakistan will also travel to England for a three-Test series stretching across August and September. Speaking on the announcement, ICC General Manager, Events & Operations, Gaurav Saxena, said, “The ICC World Test Championship Final has established itself as one of the most prestigious occasions in the global cricket calendar, bringing together the two best Test teams in the world after two years of sustained excellence and consistency.” "The 2027 World Test Championship Final will hold special significance as cricket celebrates 150 years of Test cricket. The Oval has played a proud role in the history of our sport and has hosted some of its most memorable moments. We look forward to working closely with the ECB to deliver another world-class event that celebrates the enduring legacy of Test cricket and creates lasting memories for fans around the world." ECB MD, Competitions and Major Events, Neil Snowball, added, "We are honoured to be staging the next three ICC World Test Championship Finals in England and Wales, and we're pleased to confirm that The Oval will play host again next year. The 2023 final at The Oval was a huge hit with broadcasters and fans, and I've no doubt that next year's event will be extra special again." The ICC World Test Championship has crowned a different champion in each of its first three editions. New Zealand won the inaugural title in 2021, Australia lifted the trophy in 2023, while South Africa ended their long wait for a major ICC title by winning the championship in 2025. Check WTC team standings below

The Oval will host the 2027 ICC World Test Championship Final as Australia lead the WTC standings and nine teams continue the race for qualification

ICC confirms The Oval to host 2027 World Test Championship Final. Check dates, team standings inside

India’s Test captain Shubman Gill had yet another tough call on the flip of the coin as he lost yet another toss on Friday (Nov 14) in the opening match against South Africa. Playing in the first of two Test matches at the iconic Eden Gardens, Gill’s opposite number, Temba Bavuma, won the toss as the former was mocked. Having lost the toss, Gill made a bold statement stating he has kept his luck for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.&nbsp;<h2>Gill makes bold statement</h2>“I think the only toss that I'm going to win is hopefully in the WTC finals,” Gill said after the toss.&nbsp;“Looks like a good surface. It's going to be a good surface for the first day or a couple of days. And then, hopefully, we'll get some turn as the game goes on,” he added, hinting at a balanced contest between bat and ball.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Playing in his eighth Test matches as captain of the Indian side, Gill has now lost seven tosses, with his only toss win coming in the second Test against the West Indies. That rare occasion was at the Arun Jaitley Stadium last month, where India won the match on the fifth day. Despite a dismal run of form with the toss, Gill has still managed to win three matches while losing the flip and drawing once.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The Indian skipper will be hoping for the same as he looks to outstage the current WTC holders, South Africa. The hosts made two key changes to the Playing XI for the match as Axar Patel returned to the Test Playing XI for the first time since February 2024, while Rishabh Pant was also back, having missed the Asia Cup, West Indies series and the Australia tour. &nbsp;

Playing in his eighth Test matches as captain of the Indian side, Shubman Gill has now lost seven tosses, with his only toss win coming in the second Test against the West Indies. 

India’s Test captain Shubman Gill had yet another tough call on the flip of the coin as he lost yet another toss on Friday (Nov 14) in the opening match against South Africa. Playing in the first of two Test matches at the iconic Eden Gardens, Gill’s opposite number, Temba Bavuma, won the toss as the former was mocked. Having lost the toss, Gill made a bold statement stating he has kept his luck for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Gill makes bold statement “I think the only toss that I'm going to win is hopefully in the WTC finals,” Gill said after the toss. “Looks like a good surface. It's going to be a good surface for the first day or a couple of days. And then, hopefully, we'll get some turn as the game goes on,” he added, hinting at a balanced contest between bat and ball. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Playing in his eighth Test matches as captain of the Indian side, Gill has now lost seven tosses, with his only toss win coming in the second Test against the West Indies. That rare occasion was at the Arun Jaitley Stadium last month, where India won the match on the fifth day. Despite a dismal run of form with the toss, Gill has still managed to win three matches while losing the flip and drawing once. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The Indian skipper will be hoping for the same as he looks to outstage the current WTC holders, South Africa. The hosts made two key changes to the Playing XI for the match as Axar Patel returned to the Test Playing XI for the first time since February 2024, while Rishabh Pant was also back, having missed the Asia Cup, West Indies series and the Australia tour.

Playing in his eighth Test matches as captain of the Indian side, Shubman Gill has now lost seven tosses, with his only toss win coming in the second Test against the West Indies.&nbsp;

IND vs SA: Unlucky Shubman Gill makes bold statement, says 'I'm going to win toss in WTC final'

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has snubbed BCCI’s request to host one of the next three World Test Championship (WTC) finals (in the current FTP till 2031) after granting England the hosting rights for the 2027, 2029 and 2031 editions. In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025). In a public announcement on Sunday (Jul 20), the ICC granted England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) the hosting rights after reviewing the board’s successful record of hosting the decider in the whites.&nbsp;“The Board also confirmed the awarding of hosting rights for the ICC World Test Championship Finals for the 2027, 2029, and 2031 editions to the England and Wales Cricket Board, following a successful track record in hosting recent finals,” the official release read. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the decision was taken during the ICC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Singapore. &nbsp;While the Rose Bowl in Southampton hosted the maiden WTC Final (in 2021), where New Zealand beat India to win their first ICC title since the Champions Trophy win in 2000, Australia beat Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team in the next edition’s final in 2023 at the Oval in London. However, in the latest WTC Final between the defending champions Australia and South Africa, the Proteas won the contest, bagging their first ICC trophy in 27 years. The Lord’s in London hosted the 2025 WTC Final.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-india-might-play-jasprit-bumrah-in-4th-test-manchester-after-two-pacers-ruled-out-with-injuries-1753015605627">IND vs ENG 2025: India might play Bumrah in Manchester after two fast bowlers ruled out with injuries</a> &nbsp;A PTI report in May also read that the BCCI contemplated hosting the WTC Final in the 2025-2027 window, with discussions (regarding the same) held during the ICC’s chief executives committee in Zimbabwe earlier this year. This time, at the Lord’s, India failed to reach the summit clash despite leading the points tally for most of the previous cycle, with South Africa and Australia winning the race.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Lord’s is a place synonymous with Test cricket and this was a match fitting of both the occasion and the venue,” ICC Chair Jay Shah had said in a statement shortly after South Africa’s triumph. “This was the third instalment of the ICC World Test Championship Final, the first at Lord’s, and those involved in preparing the playing surfaces, delivering the match and hosting the teams and supporters should be very proud of the show they helped put on.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, the current WTC cycle (2025-2027) has Australia leading the chart with three wins in as many games, with India sitting in fourth place with just one win in three contested matches thus far.&nbsp;

In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has snubbed BCCI’s request to host one of the next three World Test Championship (WTC) finals (in the current FTP till 2031) after granting England the hosting rights for the 2027, 2029 and 2031 editions. In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025). In a public announcement on Sunday (Jul 20), the ICC granted England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) the hosting rights after reviewing the board’s successful record of hosting the decider in the whites. “The Board also confirmed the awarding of hosting rights for the ICC World Test Championship Finals for the 2027, 2029, and 2031 editions to the England and Wales Cricket Board, following a successful track record in hosting recent finals,” the official release read. Meanwhile, the decision was taken during the ICC’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Singapore. While the Rose Bowl in Southampton hosted the maiden WTC Final (in 2021), where New Zealand beat India to win their first ICC title since the Champions Trophy win in 2000, Australia beat Rohit Sharma-led Indian Team in the next edition’s final in 2023 at the Oval in London. However, in the latest WTC Final between the defending champions Australia and South Africa, the Proteas won the contest, bagging their first ICC trophy in 27 years. The Lord’s in London hosted the 2025 WTC Final. Also read | IND vs ENG 2025: India might play Bumrah in Manchester after two fast bowlers ruled out with injuries A PTI report in May also read that the BCCI contemplated hosting the WTC Final in the 2025-2027 window, with discussions (regarding the same) held during the ICC’s chief executives committee in Zimbabwe earlier this year. This time, at the Lord’s, India failed to reach the summit clash despite leading the points tally for most of the previous cycle, with South Africa and Australia winning the race. “Lord’s is a place synonymous with Test cricket and this was a match fitting of both the occasion and the venue,” ICC Chair Jay Shah had said in a statement shortly after South Africa’s triumph. “This was the third instalment of the ICC World Test Championship Final, the first at Lord’s, and those involved in preparing the playing surfaces, delivering the match and hosting the teams and supporters should be very proud of the show they helped put on.” Meanwhile, the current WTC cycle (2025-2027) has Australia leading the chart with three wins in as many games, with India sitting in fourth place with just one win in three contested matches thus far.

In the latest development, England will remain the host of the coveted WTC Finals, having staged the previous three (2021, 2023 and 2025).

BCCI snubbed as ICC grants England hosting rights of WTC finals in 2027, 2029 and 2031

Former India cricketer-turned-coach Ravi Shastri feels the Lord’s Stadium in London is an excellent choice for a WTC Final but dropped suggestions, including naming two other stadiums, one from India, which can draw more people than the Mecca of Cricket. The Lord’s Stadium in London hosted the recently concluded World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa, with the Proteas winning it successfully. Although it remains a top-notch cricket venue worldwide, remaining packed for all international matches, including neutral games, Shastri feels it’s still not a 100,000-seater like the two venues he suggested.&nbsp;England has hosted the last three WTC Finals, with the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), among others, showing interest in staging at least one of the upcoming ones. Though attendance has never been an issue despite England not featuring in the three scheduled WTC finals, Shastri feels once this summit clash gains popularity worldwide, hosting it at either the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Australia and the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, the two with the highest capacity, would go world of good to its popularity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2nd-test-what-is-team-india-test-record-at-edgbaston-birmingham-venue-for-second-game-1751195363763">IND vs ENG: What is India’s Test record at Edgbaston, venue for second Test</a> &nbsp;“I think to start off initially, it’s good if it’s here (Lord’s) actually. Once it gets the popularity and eyebrows it deserves, then it can start shifting. But I think the MCG can be a great place for a World Test Championship Final. Ahmedabad can be a great place for the WTC Final.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Basically, the places where you can draw a crowd. Because Lord’s is not a 100,000-seater stadium. So, irrespective of which team is playing, you know you will get a good crowd,” Ravi Shastri said while speaking on a Wisden Cricket podcast. &nbsp;Meanwhile, several reports have suggested that England could continue to host the next two WTC Finals scheduled in 2029 and 2031. Going by ICC’s Future Tours Program, the 2027 WTC Final will take place at Lord’s.&nbsp;

England has hosted the last three WTC Finals, with the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), among others, showing interest in staging at least one of the upcoming ones. 

Former India cricketer-turned-coach Ravi Shastri feels the Lord’s Stadium in London is an excellent choice for a WTC Final but dropped suggestions, including naming two other stadiums, one from India, which can draw more people than the Mecca of Cricket. The Lord’s Stadium in London hosted the recently concluded World Test Championship (WTC) Final between Australia and South Africa, with the Proteas winning it successfully. Although it remains a top-notch cricket venue worldwide, remaining packed for all international matches, including neutral games, Shastri feels it’s still not a 100,000-seater like the two venues he suggested. England has hosted the last three WTC Finals, with the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), among others, showing interest in staging at least one of the upcoming ones. Though attendance has never been an issue despite England not featuring in the three scheduled WTC finals, Shastri feels once this summit clash gains popularity worldwide, hosting it at either the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in Australia and the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, the two with the highest capacity, would go world of good to its popularity. Also read | IND vs ENG: What is India’s Test record at Edgbaston, venue for second Test “I think to start off initially, it’s good if it’s here (Lord’s) actually. Once it gets the popularity and eyebrows it deserves, then it can start shifting. But I think the MCG can be a great place for a World Test Championship Final. Ahmedabad can be a great place for the WTC Final. “Basically, the places where you can draw a crowd. Because Lord’s is not a 100,000-seater stadium. So, irrespective of which team is playing, you know you will get a good crowd,” Ravi Shastri said while speaking on a Wisden Cricket podcast. Meanwhile, several reports have suggested that England could continue to host the next two WTC Finals scheduled in 2029 and 2031. Going by ICC’s Future Tours Program, the 2027 WTC Final will take place at Lord’s.

England has hosted the last three WTC Finals, with the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), among others, showing interest in staging at least one of the upcoming ones.&nbsp;

Ravi Shastri suggests two stadiums, one from India, which can draw more crowd than Lord's for WTC Final

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets. In what is a historic day for South African cricket, Temba Bavuma joined Hansie Cronje as the only captain to lift a senior ICC men’s trophy. After the win, he rejoiced the moment as his side conquered the biggest prize in red-ball cricket.<h2>Temba Bavuma rejoices historic triumph</h2>“Special moment for us as a team, special moment back home will take a couple of days to sink in. The energy was there, we have been wanting this as a team, we have been knocking on the door, we have gone through the heartache, the disappointments, seen it with the past players and the sun is on us. Hopefully, this is one of many,” Bavuma said during the post-match.&nbsp;Needing 69 more runs to win the WTC title on Saturday, Bavuma and Co completed the chase in the first session of Day 4. Overnight batters, Bavuma (66) and Aiden Markram (136) laid the foundation for the win as they stitched a stand of 147 runs for the fourth wicket.&nbsp;David Bedingham (21) and Kyle Verreynne (4) later completed the chase as South Africa won by five wickets at the Home of Cricket.&nbsp;The triumph comes after a series of near misses for the Proteas in the near history having most recently lost the 2024 T20 World Cup final to India. They also reached multiple ODI World Cup semifinals, highlighting their tags as chokers.&nbsp;On the other hand, the defeat for Australia is their fourth in an ICC event in a senior men’s event. They lost the 1975 and 1996 ODI World Cup final while they later lost the 2010 T20 World Cup. &nbsp;

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets.

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets. In what is a historic day for South African cricket, Temba Bavuma joined Hansie Cronje as the only captain to lift a senior ICC men’s trophy. After the win, he rejoiced the moment as his side conquered the biggest prize in red-ball cricket. Temba Bavuma rejoices historic triumph “Special moment for us as a team, special moment back home will take a couple of days to sink in. The energy was there, we have been wanting this as a team, we have been knocking on the door, we have gone through the heartache, the disappointments, seen it with the past players and the sun is on us. Hopefully, this is one of many,” Bavuma said during the post-match. Needing 69 more runs to win the WTC title on Saturday, Bavuma and Co completed the chase in the first session of Day 4. Overnight batters, Bavuma (66) and Aiden Markram (136) laid the foundation for the win as they stitched a stand of 147 runs for the fourth wicket. David Bedingham (21) and Kyle Verreynne (4) later completed the chase as South Africa won by five wickets at the Home of Cricket. The triumph comes after a series of near misses for the Proteas in the near history having most recently lost the 2024 T20 World Cup final to India. They also reached multiple ODI World Cup semifinals, highlighting their tags as chokers. On the other hand, the defeat for Australia is their fourth in an ICC event in a senior men’s event. They lost the 1975 and 1996 ODI World Cup final while they later lost the 2010 T20 World Cup.

South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC trophy as they beat Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) final on Saturday (June 14) by five wickets.

SA vs AUS, WTC 2025 Final: Temba Bavuma rejoices South Africa's historic triumph, says 'special moment for us'

&nbsp;South Africa are on the brink of a historic World Test Championship (WTC) win as they need 69 more runs to end their trophy drought in an ICC competition. Playing on Friday (June 14) on Day 3 of the WTC final, the Proteas made a solid start to their second innings with skipper Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram playing crucial roles. However, it was skipper Bavuma who took the applause having stood form at the Lord’s cricket ground despite appearing to have sustained a hamstring injury.&nbsp;Batting on 6, right before the tea break, Bavuma received a lengthy treatment on his hamstring with the management concerned. However, the Proteas skipper continued to bat and would later stitch an unbeaten stand of 143 runs with Markram. After Stumps on Day 3, batting coach Ashwell Prince reflected on the call and stated that the management had a decision to make.<h2>‘We had to make a call’</h2>"We had to make a big call whether he continues to bat and how it will affect his strokeplay, how that might affect Aiden's rhythm," Ashwell Prince, South Africa's batting coach, said. "If twos are being turned into one [or] they can't run the twos or the threes. Both of them were adamant that Temba was going to continue. He wanted to continue.”&nbsp;At the time of writing before the start of Day 4, South Africa are 213/2 in their second innings and need 69 runs to win. Aiden Markram is unbeaten on 102 while skipper Temba Bavuma is on 65 runs. The pair has already added 143 runs for the third wicket and are likely to end South Africa’s title drought in an ICC event.&nbsp;The Proteas’ only senior men’s silverware was the 1998 Champions Trophy and have since faced an unfortunate tail of near-misses including the 2024 T20 World Cup where they lost to India. If they win the WTC final, they will also become the third different nation to lift the Test Holy Grail after New Zealand and Australia.

Batting on 6, right before the tea break, Temba Bavuma received a lengthy treatment on his hamstring with the management concerned. 

South Africa are on the brink of a historic World Test Championship (WTC) win as they need 69 more runs to end their trophy drought in an ICC competition. Playing on Friday (June 14) on Day 3 of the WTC final, the Proteas made a solid start to their second innings with skipper Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram playing crucial roles. However, it was skipper Bavuma who took the applause having stood form at the Lord’s cricket ground despite appearing to have sustained a hamstring injury. Batting on 6, right before the tea break, Bavuma received a lengthy treatment on his hamstring with the management concerned. However, the Proteas skipper continued to bat and would later stitch an unbeaten stand of 143 runs with Markram. After Stumps on Day 3, batting coach Ashwell Prince reflected on the call and stated that the management had a decision to make. ‘We had to make a call’ "We had to make a big call whether he continues to bat and how it will affect his strokeplay, how that might affect Aiden's rhythm," Ashwell Prince, South Africa's batting coach, said. "If twos are being turned into one [or] they can't run the twos or the threes. Both of them were adamant that Temba was going to continue. He wanted to continue.” At the time of writing before the start of Day 4, South Africa are 213/2 in their second innings and need 69 runs to win. Aiden Markram is unbeaten on 102 while skipper Temba Bavuma is on 65 runs. The pair has already added 143 runs for the third wicket and are likely to end South Africa’s title drought in an ICC event. The Proteas’ only senior men’s silverware was the 1998 Champions Trophy and have since faced an unfortunate tail of near-misses including the 2024 T20 World Cup where they lost to India. If they win the WTC final, they will also become the third different nation to lift the Test Holy Grail after New Zealand and Australia.

Batting on 6, right before the tea break, Temba Bavuma received a lengthy treatment on his hamstring with the management concerned.&nbsp;

SA vs AUS, WTC 2025 Final: Ashwell Prince opens up on Temba Bavuma's injury, says 'we had to make a big call'

South Africa are on the brink of a historic World Test Championship (WTC) win as they need 69 more runs to conquer the Aussies at the Lord’s Cricket Ground. Having narrowed Australia to a second innings lead of 281 runs, the Proteas are all but set to lift their first ICC silverware since the 1998 Champions Trophy. However, rain could delay the historic moment as Temba Bavuma and Co. await for frantic Saturday in the WTC final.&nbsp;<h2>Will rain play spoilsport on Day 4 of WTC Final?</h2>According to AccuWeather, the morning of Day 4 is expected to be warm with “sunny periods and a passing shower.” There is a 55 percent chance of precipitation during the first session, coupled with 60 percent cloud cover and wind gusts reaching up to 48 km/h.&nbsp;&nbsp;A yellow warning for thunderstorms has also been issued between 7 PM Friday and 6 AM Saturday. Earlier conditions on June 13 were dry and favourable for play, but Day 4 may not promise the same consistency — and that could pose problems for the South Africans.&nbsp;However, even if rain plays any role on Day 4, it is unlikely to affect the outcome of the contest with a minimum of 180 overs of play still remaining in the match.&nbsp;<h2>Is there a reserve day in WTC final?</h2>Yes, in case there is a significant loss of overs during the five days due to rain or other unavoidable conditions, then a reserve day is set to be used. Considering South Africa need 69 runs and Australia need eight wickets to win, it is unlikely that the match will last any longer than Day 4.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the time of writing before the start of Day 4, South Africa are 213/2 in their second innings and need 69 runs to win. Aiden Markram is unbeaten on 102 while skipper Temba Bavuma is on 65 runs. The pair has already added 143 runs for the third wicket and are likely to end South Africa’s title drought in an ICC event.

South Africa are on the brink of a historic World Test Championship (WTC) win as they need 69 more runs to conquer the Aussies at the Lord’s Cricket Ground

South Africa are on the brink of a historic World Test Championship (WTC) win as they need 69 more runs to conquer the Aussies at the Lord’s Cricket Ground. Having narrowed Australia to a second innings lead of 281 runs, the Proteas are all but set to lift their first ICC silverware since the 1998 Champions Trophy. However, rain could delay the historic moment as Temba Bavuma and Co. await for frantic Saturday in the WTC final. Will rain play spoilsport on Day 4 of WTC Final? According to AccuWeather, the morning of Day 4 is expected to be warm with “sunny periods and a passing shower.” There is a 55 percent chance of precipitation during the first session, coupled with 60 percent cloud cover and wind gusts reaching up to 48 km/h. A yellow warning for thunderstorms has also been issued between 7 PM Friday and 6 AM Saturday. Earlier conditions on June 13 were dry and favourable for play, but Day 4 may not promise the same consistency — and that could pose problems for the South Africans. However, even if rain plays any role on Day 4, it is unlikely to affect the outcome of the contest with a minimum of 180 overs of play still remaining in the match. Is there a reserve day in WTC final? Yes, in case there is a significant loss of overs during the five days due to rain or other unavoidable conditions, then a reserve day is set to be used. Considering South Africa need 69 runs and Australia need eight wickets to win, it is unlikely that the match will last any longer than Day 4. At the time of writing before the start of Day 4, South Africa are 213/2 in their second innings and need 69 runs to win. Aiden Markram is unbeaten on 102 while skipper Temba Bavuma is on 65 runs. The pair has already added 143 runs for the third wicket and are likely to end South Africa’s title drought in an ICC event.

South Africa are on the brink of a historic World Test Championship (WTC) win as they need 69 more runs to conquer the Aussies at the Lord’s Cricket Ground

SA vs AUS, WTC 2025 Final: Will rain play spoilsport on Day 4 as South Africa inch closer to historic win?

Aiden Markram's superb century on Friday left South Africa on the brink of a dramatic victory in the World Test Championship final against Australia after decades of heartbreak in major tournaments.South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing.Opener Markram, dismissed for a duck in the first innings, was 102 not out and South Africa captain Temba Bavuma unbeaten on 65 despite spending most of his innings limping with a hamstring injury.The pair have shared an unbroken stand of 143 as South Africa pursue &nbsp;what will be, if they achieve it, the second-highest successful run chase in a Test at Lord's.The highest chase was the 344 made by the West Indies in 1984.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cursed-in-t20-final-shreyas-iyer-loses-second-tournament-final-as-skipper-in-10-days-1749816867919">Cursed in T20 final? Shreyas Iyer loses second tournament final as skipper in 10 days</a>But South Africa, whose last International Cricket Council title came at the 1998 ICC Knockout, have such a long history of folding under pressure that their supporters will not be taking anything for granted against serial winners and WTC title-holders Australia.Australia's Mitchell Starc had starred earlier Friday with both bat and ball to put his team in charge.The tailender made 58 not out in Australia's second-innings total of 207 and then, in his main role of left-arm fast bowler, dismissed Ryan Rickelton (six) and Wiaan Mulder (27) to leave the Proteas 70-2.Starc almost had a third wicket when Bavuma got a thick edge only for Smith, in a helmet at an advanced slip position, to drop a fast-travelling catch and leave the field with a finger injury.But with any early moisture in the surface long gone, conditions for batting at a sun-drenched Lord's were now as good as at any time in the match.Markram ton Markram, aggressive from the outset, punched and pulled Australia captain Pat Cummins for well-struck fours.With Australia appearing to miss absent former captain Smith's tactical input, Bavuma produced the occasional gem of a shot, including a glorious drive down the ground off Cummins.Australia spinner Nathan Lyon almost dismissed both batsmen, with Markram aiming a booming drive at a sharply turning off-break, only to miss the ball completely before it also beat wicketkeeper Alex Carey.Bavuma had made 43 when a slog-sweep off Lyon just evaded a diving Sam Konstas at deep midwicket as the substitute fielder attempted to pull off a low catch only for the ball to run away for four.Soon afterwards, the diminutive Bavuma, who has a history of hamstring trouble, completed a gritty 83-ball fifty.Markram went to 97 with a brilliant straight-driven boundary off Josh Hazlewood and, shortly before stumps, clipped the fast bowler through midwicket to complete his hundred with an 11th four in 156 balls faced.It was only the 30-year-old's eighth hundred in 84 Test innings.Earlier Friday South Africa enjoyed an early breakthrough when Kagiso Rabada had Nathan Lyon plumb lbw to leave Australia 148-9 in their second innings.But tailender Starc, dropped in the gully on 14 by Marco Jansen late on the Thursday, kept the Proteas at bay, ably assisted by Hazlewood, reaching the 11th fifty of his 97-Test career.Part-time spinner Markram eventually succeeded where the frontline bowlers had failed when Hazlewood holed out to end a 59-run partnership for the last wicket.Paceman Rabada took 4-59 to finish with nine wickets in the match.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing.

Aiden Markram's superb century on Friday left South Africa on the brink of a dramatic victory in the World Test Championship final against Australia after decades of heartbreak in major tournaments. South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing. Opener Markram, dismissed for a duck in the first innings, was 102 not out and South Africa captain Temba Bavuma unbeaten on 65 despite spending most of his innings limping with a hamstring injury. The pair have shared an unbroken stand of 143 as South Africa pursue what will be, if they achieve it, the second-highest successful run chase in a Test at Lord's. The highest chase was the 344 made by the West Indies in 1984. Also Read - Cursed in T20 final? Shreyas Iyer loses second tournament final as skipper in 10 days But South Africa, whose last International Cricket Council title came at the 1998 ICC Knockout, have such a long history of folding under pressure that their supporters will not be taking anything for granted against serial winners and WTC title-holders Australia. Australia's Mitchell Starc had starred earlier Friday with both bat and ball to put his team in charge. The tailender made 58 not out in Australia's second-innings total of 207 and then, in his main role of left-arm fast bowler, dismissed Ryan Rickelton (six) and Wiaan Mulder (27) to leave the Proteas 70-2. Starc almost had a third wicket when Bavuma got a thick edge only for Smith, in a helmet at an advanced slip position, to drop a fast-travelling catch and leave the field with a finger injury. But with any early moisture in the surface long gone, conditions for batting at a sun-drenched Lord's were now as good as at any time in the match. Markram ton Markram, aggressive from the outset, punched and pulled Australia captain Pat Cummins for well-struck fours. With Australia appearing to miss absent former captain Smith's tactical input, Bavuma produced the occasional gem of a shot, including a glorious drive down the ground off Cummins. Australia spinner Nathan Lyon almost dismissed both batsmen, with Markram aiming a booming drive at a sharply turning off-break, only to miss the ball completely before it also beat wicketkeeper Alex Carey. Bavuma had made 43 when a slog-sweep off Lyon just evaded a diving Sam Konstas at deep midwicket as the substitute fielder attempted to pull off a low catch only for the ball to run away for four. Soon afterwards, the diminutive Bavuma, who has a history of hamstring trouble, completed a gritty 83-ball fifty. Markram went to 97 with a brilliant straight-driven boundary off Josh Hazlewood and, shortly before stumps, clipped the fast bowler through midwicket to complete his hundred with an 11th four in 156 balls faced. It was only the 30-year-old's eighth hundred in 84 Test innings. Earlier Friday South Africa enjoyed an early breakthrough when Kagiso Rabada had Nathan Lyon plumb lbw to leave Australia 148-9 in their second innings. But tailender Starc, dropped in the gully on 14 by Marco Jansen late on the Thursday, kept the Proteas at bay, ably assisted by Hazlewood, reaching the 11th fifty of his 97-Test career. Part-time spinner Markram eventually succeeded where the frontline bowlers had failed when Hazlewood holed out to end a 59-run partnership for the last wicket. Paceman Rabada took 4-59 to finish with nine wickets in the match. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

South Africa reached the close on the third day at Lord's on 213-2 in their second innings, needing just 69 runs to win, with eight wickets still standing.

WTC Final, Day 3: Markram, Bavuma take South Africa near to glory vs Australia

The World Test Championship (WTC) Final is currently ongoing between Australia and South Africa at Lord's (London) and it features probably the luckiest player of all time. The player, Josh Hazlewood, plays as a fast bowler for Australia and what makes him the luckiest is his unbeaten record in finals - of all kinds.Hazlewood, before this WTC Final 2025, has featured in nine finals in his career across formats - and hasn't lost a single one of them. Isn't he the luckiest player in WTC Final 2025?Hazlewood has managed to win an IPL title with modern holy trinity of Indian cricket - Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. His IPL feat is something which no other player has managed to do in 18-year-long history of the T20 tournament which started in 2008.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-biggest-show-off-buy-in-ipl-indian-all-rounder-won-titles-with-csk-and-mi-without-playing-a-single-game-with-them-1749718132436">Biggest show-off buy in IPL? Indian all-rounder won titles with CSK and MI without playing a single game with them</a>He won with Dhoni while playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2021, with Kohli while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025 and with Rohit while being a part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) squad for one game in 2015 before withdrawing his name.As for his other finals, he started his unbeaten run with Australia U-19 side in the year 2010 and won Player of the Match for the figures of 4/30.In other T20s, he has won a title with Sydney Sixers in now-defunct CLT20 in 2012 and then in Big Bash League in 2020 (not part of the playing XI). In 2021, achieved another milestone with Australia cricket team and won the T20 World Cup.In ODIs, he has won two final - 2015 World Cup and 2023 World Cup. To complete his ICC trophy cabinet, he also won the 2023 WTC Final with Australia.The records clearly make him favourite to win another ICC title with Australia in the ongoing WTC Final but he's already the luckiest player for sure.

Hazlewood, before this WTC Final 2025, has featured in nine finals in his career across formats - and hasn't lost a single one of them. Isn't he the luckiest player in WTC Final 2025?

The World Test Championship (WTC) Final is currently ongoing between Australia and South Africa at Lord's (London) and it features probably the luckiest player of all time. The player, Josh Hazlewood, plays as a fast bowler for Australia and what makes him the luckiest is his unbeaten record in finals - of all kinds. Hazlewood, before this WTC Final 2025, has featured in nine finals in his career across formats - and hasn't lost a single one of them. Isn't he the luckiest player in WTC Final 2025? Hazlewood has managed to win an IPL title with modern holy trinity of Indian cricket - Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and MS Dhoni. His IPL feat is something which no other player has managed to do in 18-year-long history of the T20 tournament which started in 2008. Also Read - Biggest show-off buy in IPL? Indian all-rounder won titles with CSK and MI without playing a single game with them He won with Dhoni while playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2021, with Kohli while playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025 and with Rohit while being a part of the Mumbai Indians (MI) squad for one game in 2015 before withdrawing his name. As for his other finals, he started his unbeaten run with Australia U-19 side in the year 2010 and won Player of the Match for the figures of 4/30. In other T20s, he has won a title with Sydney Sixers in now-defunct CLT20 in 2012 and then in Big Bash League in 2020 (not part of the playing XI). In 2021, achieved another milestone with Australia cricket team and won the T20 World Cup. In ODIs, he has won two final - 2015 World Cup and 2023 World Cup. To complete his ICC trophy cabinet, he also won the 2023 WTC Final with Australia. The records clearly make him favourite to win another ICC title with Australia in the ongoing WTC Final but he's already the luckiest player for sure.

Hazlewood, before this WTC Final 2025, has featured in nine finals in his career across formats - and hasn't lost a single one of them. Isn't he the luckiest player in WTC Final 2025?

Luckiest player in WTC Final? The Australian pacer has managed to win all finals in career including IPL with Dhoni, Rohit and Kohli

Australia have their nose ahead after a thrilling day 2 (June 12) in World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's (London) in the UK. The defending champions ended the day with 218 runs ahead and two wickets still in hand on a pitch which has produced 28 wickets in two days.Australia were in complete command when they started their second innings with a lead of 74 runs. A spirited bowling performance by Proteas pacers, however, left them looking vulnerable.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-video-labuschagne-takes-screamer-at-covers-to-dismiss-bavuma-1749732892282">WTC Final | SA vs AUS: Labuschagne takes screamer at covers to dismiss Bavuma - WATCH</a>The Aussie added 28 runs for the opening wicket in the second innings before Kagiso Rabada, who took a five-for in first innings, removed Usman Khawaja for the second time in the Test. Rabada followed it up with the wicket of Cameron Green in the same over.After Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne added 16 runs for the third wicket, they suffered a collapse and went from 44/2 to 73/7. Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc then added 61 runs for the eighth wicket to take Australia's lead past 200. Carey was the final wicket of the day but not before scoring a gutsy 43 off 50. Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon were at the crease at close of play on day 2.Earlier, South Africa had a steady first session and scored 78 runs for the loss of one wicket before Australia struck back in the second session.Skipper Cummins struck early post lunch with two wickets in an over. South Africa could not overcome the double blows and were folded out for a paltry 138 in the first innings and conceded a 74-run lead. Cummins finished with a six-for and reached 300 Test wickets as well.

Australia were in complete command when they started their second innings with a lead of 74 runs. A spirited bowling performance by Proteas pacers, however, left them looking vulnerable.

Australia have their nose ahead after a thrilling day 2 (June 12) in World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's (London) in the UK. The defending champions ended the day with 218 runs ahead and two wickets still in hand on a pitch which has produced 28 wickets in two days. Australia were in complete command when they started their second innings with a lead of 74 runs. A spirited bowling performance by Proteas pacers, however, left them looking vulnerable. Also Read - WTC Final | SA vs AUS: Labuschagne takes screamer at covers to dismiss Bavuma - WATCH The Aussie added 28 runs for the opening wicket in the second innings before Kagiso Rabada, who took a five-for in first innings, removed Usman Khawaja for the second time in the Test. Rabada followed it up with the wicket of Cameron Green in the same over. After Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne added 16 runs for the third wicket, they suffered a collapse and went from 44/2 to 73/7. Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc then added 61 runs for the eighth wicket to take Australia's lead past 200. Carey was the final wicket of the day but not before scoring a gutsy 43 off 50. Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon were at the crease at close of play on day 2. Earlier, South Africa had a steady first session and scored 78 runs for the loss of one wicket before Australia struck back in the second session. Skipper Cummins struck early post lunch with two wickets in an over. South Africa could not overcome the double blows and were folded out for a paltry 138 in the first innings and conceded a 74-run lead. Cummins finished with a six-for and reached 300 Test wickets as well.

Australia were in complete command when they started their second innings with a lead of 74 runs. A spirited bowling performance by Proteas pacers, however, left them looking vulnerable.

WTC Final, SA vs AUS: Carey fightback puts Australia slightly ahead after another 14-wicket day

South Africa had the upper hand in the first session on day 2 (June 12) of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s until Marnus Labuschagne changed things with a stunning diving catch that dismissed well-set Temba Bavuma.The South African captain was looking good, scoring freely and reaching 36 with four boundaries and a six. But then, Pat Cummins, the Australian skipper, broke the momentum with a key wicket.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sa-batter-bedingham-obstructs-the-field-but-given-not-out-in-wtc-final-here-s-what-the-rule-says-1749732917798">SA batter Bedingham 'obstructs the field' but given not out in WTC Final? Here's what the rule says</a>Australia’s fast bowlers were accurate and consistent, even though South Africa showed more intent on Day 2. They hadn’t managed to build a big lead. Bavuma had put together a strong stand with David Bedingham, but in the 40th over he went for a stylish cover drive. The shot had decent timing, but it wasn’t placed well. Labuschagne at short cover, reacted quickly, dived to his right, and pulled off a stunning catch. Check the video below:

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKzGOd3obq9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKzGOd3obq9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKzGOd3obq9/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Day 1 at Lord’s was all about the bowlers, with 14 wickets falling in a gripping start to the match. Kagiso Rabada led the way for South Africa with an excellent five-wicket haul, while Marco Jansen supported well with 3 for 49. Australia had looked steady at one point thanks to fifties from Steve Smith and Beau Webster, but a sudden collapse after tea saw them lose five wickets for just 20 runs, ending their innings at 212.In reply, Mitchell Starc sparked an Australian comeback. He struck twice early and with help from fellow pacers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. After a stead first session on second day for South Africa, where they added 78 runs for one wicket, Australia were back at their best.Skipper Cummins struck early in the second session with two wickets in an over. South Africa could not overcome the double blows and were folded out for a paltry 138 in the first innings and conceded a 74-run lead.Cummins finished with a six-for and reached 300 Test wickets as well.&nbsp;

South Africa had the upper hand in the first session on Day 2 of the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s until Marnus Labuschagne changed things with a stunning diving catch that dismissed a well-set batter Temba Bavuma. 

South Africa had the upper hand in the first session on day 2 (June 12) of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s until Marnus Labuschagne changed things with a stunning diving catch that dismissed well-set Temba Bavuma. The South African captain was looking good, scoring freely and reaching 36 with four boundaries and a six. But then, Pat Cummins, the Australian skipper, broke the momentum with a key wicket. Also Read - SA batter Bedingham 'obstructs the field' but given not out in WTC Final? Here's what the rule says Australia’s fast bowlers were accurate and consistent, even though South Africa showed more intent on Day 2. They hadn’t managed to build a big lead. Bavuma had put together a strong stand with David Bedingham, but in the 40th over he went for a stylish cover drive. The shot had decent timing, but it wasn’t placed well. Labuschagne at short cover, reacted quickly, dived to his right, and pulled off a stunning catch. Check the video below:

South Africa had the upper hand in the first session on Day 2 of the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s until Marnus Labuschagne changed things with a stunning diving catch that dismissed a well-set batter Temba Bavuma.&nbsp;

WTC Final | SA vs AUS: Labuschagne takes screamer at covers to dismiss Bavuma - WATCH

The World Test Championship (WTC) Final day 2 (June 12) between Australia and South Africa saw a potential controversial moment in the morning session. The moment came in the last over before lunch as Protea batter David Bedingham knowingly 'obstructed the field' but the umpires decided to give not not after some half-hearted appeals by a couple of Aussie players.On the third ball of innings' 49th over by Beau Webster, Bedingham got a thick inside edge on the ball which went into the flap of his pads. The ball almost popped out itself as Aussie wicketkeeper Alex Carey came forward to collect a potential catch. Check the video below:

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKzLS9ISpuN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKzLS9ISpuN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div></div></div><div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewBox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div><div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div></div><div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"><div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div></div><div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div></div><div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div></div></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div></div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKzLS9ISpuN/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by ICC (@icc)</a></div></blockquote>
<script async src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-karun-nair-play-in-1st-test-vs-england-batter-gets-karnataka-teammate-s-backing-before-impending-return-to-cricket-1749727496007">Will Karun Nair be able to withstand Test pressure? Batter gets Karnataka teammate's backing before impending return to cricket</a>Bedingham, however, took matter in his own hands, literally, and took the ball before dropping it on the ground close to his foot. After an appeal by Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith, on-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Chris Gaffney turned it down. The Aussie let it go as well.Here's what the rule says about all this:"Either batter is out Obstructing the field if, at any time while the ball is in play and, without the consent of a fielder, he uses the bat or any part of his person to return the ball to any fielder," says ICC's rule book about WTC playing conditions in section 37.4 regarding Obstructing the field clause.The umpires, however, might have though that the ball wasn't going to fall itself in which case it was a dead ball and hence rendering the appeal by the Aussies null and void.Nonetheless, no batter should be doing what Bedingham, who scored a valiant 45 before being dismissed, did that too at the biggest stage. This incident will surely invoke a decision with different people having different point of views.

Bedingham took matter in his own hands, literally, and took the ball before dropping it on the ground close to his foot. After an appeal by Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith, on-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Chris Gaffney turned it down.

The World Test Championship (WTC) Final day 2 (June 12) between Australia and South Africa saw a potential controversial moment in the morning session. The moment came in the last over before lunch as Protea batter David Bedingham knowingly 'obstructed the field' but the umpires decided to give not not after some half-hearted appeals by a couple of Aussie players. On the third ball of innings' 49th over by Beau Webster, Bedingham got a thick inside edge on the ball which went into the flap of his pads. The ball almost popped out itself as Aussie wicketkeeper Alex Carey came forward to collect a potential catch. Check the video below:

Bedingham took matter in his own hands, literally, and took the ball before dropping it on the ground close to his foot. After an appeal by Usman Khawaja and Steve Smith, on-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Chris Gaffney turned it down.

Out or not out? SA batter Bedingham 'obstructs the field' but survives appeal in WTC Final - Here's what the rule says

There have been many big partnerships in the World Test Championship (WTC) history but surprisingly no Indian pair features in list of top five such instances.

There have been many big partnerships in the World Test Championship (WTC) history but surprisingly no Indian pair features in list of top five such instances.

Highest partnerships in WTC history - Surprisingly, no Indian pair in top five

South Africa pace spearhead <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rabada">Kagiso Rabada</a> etched his name with golden letters in cricket history during the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc-final">World Test Championship (WTC) Final</a> at Lord’s. Rabada became the only second player ever to have his name on both the home and away honours boards at the Home of Cricket.&nbsp;At<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lords"> Lord’s stadium</a> in London, players who score a century or take five wickets in a Test match have their names inscribed in gold on the dressing room honours boards. Until now, only West Indies legend Gordon Greenidge had achieved this rare double feat. Greenidge scored centuries against England in 1984 and 1988 (on the away board) and also made a century for the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) against the Rest of the World in 1987 (on the home board).&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-south-africa-wtc-final-2025-produces-cricket-first-in-its-145-year-history-starc-cummins-hazlewood-kagiso-rabada-1749701957549">WTC Final 2025 produces cricket’s first in its 145-year history at Lord's</a>&nbsp;On Wednesday (June 11), Rabada joined Greenidge by taking 5/51 against Australia. Since South Africa has been allocated the home dressing room for the WTC Final, Rabada’s performance earned him a spot on the home honours board. He already had his name etched on the away honours board for a five-wicket haul against England in 2022.&nbsp;To help prepare, South Africa roped in former England bowler Stuart Broad, who has scalped 113 wickets at the title venue. "Stuart gave us a few pointers on certain field placings and in general with the conditions with cloud cover and wind," Rabada was quoted saying to BBC.&nbsp;Rabada is now the fourth highest wicket-taker for South Africa&nbsp;With the five-wicket haul against the Aussie in the mace-winning clash, Rabada also moved to fourth place on South Africa’s all-time wicket-takers list, passing Allan Donald.&nbsp;He now has 332 wickets, behind only Makhaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock, and Dale Steyn.&nbsp;Rabada said at the post-match presentation that being part of that elite group is special, and he hopes to continue performing strongly. On a tough day for batters at Lord’s, Rabada stood out with his sheer pace and accuracy.

At Lord’s stadium in London, players who score a century or take five wickets in a Test match have their names inscribed in gold on the dressing room honours boards.

South Africa pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada etched his name with golden letters in cricket history during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s. Rabada became the only second player ever to have his name on both the home and away honours boards at the Home of Cricket. At Lord’s stadium in London, players who score a century or take five wickets in a Test match have their names inscribed in gold on the dressing room honours boards. Until now, only West Indies legend Gordon Greenidge had achieved this rare double feat. Greenidge scored centuries against England in 1984 and 1988 (on the away board) and also made a century for the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) against the Rest of the World in 1987 (on the home board). Also Read | WTC Final 2025 produces cricket’s first in its 145-year history at Lord's On Wednesday (June 11), Rabada joined Greenidge by taking 5/51 against Australia. Since South Africa has been allocated the home dressing room for the WTC Final, Rabada’s performance earned him a spot on the home honours board. He already had his name etched on the away honours board for a five-wicket haul against England in 2022. To help prepare, South Africa roped in former England bowler Stuart Broad, who has scalped 113 wickets at the title venue. "Stuart gave us a few pointers on certain field placings and in general with the conditions with cloud cover and wind," Rabada was quoted saying to BBC. Rabada is now the fourth highest wicket-taker for South Africa With the five-wicket haul against the Aussie in the mace-winning clash, Rabada also moved to fourth place on South Africa’s all-time wicket-takers list, passing Allan Donald. He now has 332 wickets, behind only Makhaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock, and Dale Steyn. Rabada said at the post-match presentation that being part of that elite group is special, and he hopes to continue performing strongly. On a tough day for batters at Lord’s, Rabada stood out with his sheer pace and accuracy.

At Lord’s stadium in London, players who score a century or take five wickets in a Test match have their names inscribed in gold on the dressing room honours boards.

WTC Final 2025: Rabada unlocks unbelievable rare feat at Lord's, joins West Indies legend

World Test Championship (WTC) defending champions Australia finished on top after day 1 (June) of the WTC Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's in London (UK). After being bowled out for 212, Australia took four wickets in remaining day's play as South Africa finished at 43/4 and are railing by 169 in the first innings.It was Mitchell Starc who started the proceeding for Australia with venom and took out Aiden Markram in the very first over after the defending champions were bowled out for 212 in the first innings.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rabada-becomes-second-bowler-to-take-five-for-in-wtc-final-who-is-first-bowler-1749655816550">Rabada becomes second bowler to take five-for in WTC Final. First bowler was in Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2025</a>Starc followed that with Ryan Rickelton's wicket as South Africa lost second wicket for less than 20 runs. Australia skipper Pat Cummins then removed Sa number 3 Wiaan Mulder for the third scalp before Josh Hazlewood joined the party and removed Tristan Stubbs with a peach.Earlier, chasing their first ICC trophy, South Africa won the toss and skipper Temba Bavuma invited Australia to bat first in overcast conditions. South Africa pacers responded to captain's decision and bowled brilliant opening spell.It was Kagiso Rabada who broke through first and did so in some style. The Proteas pace spearhead sent back Usman Khawaja for a 20-ball duck before cleaning up returning all-rounder Cameron Green three balls later in the same over.Makeshift opener Marnus Labuschagne then added 30 runs with Smith before falling to a perfectly executed plan by Marco Jansen. At the stroke of lunch on day 1, Jansen struck again and took out dangerous Travis Head as Australia returned to dressing room at 67/4.In the second session, Australia fought back and scored 123 runs for the loss of Steve Smith's wicket who scored a magnificent 66 off 112.Come third session, South Africa started with a bang and took out Alex Carey quickly. From 192/6, Australia suffered a collapse and lost last four wickets for 20 runs. All-rounder Beau Webster top scored for Australia with a hard-fought 72.

World Test Championship (WTC) defending champions Australia finished on top after day 1 (June) of the WTC Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's in London (UK).

World Test Championship (WTC) defending champions Australia finished on top after day 1 (June) of the WTC Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's in London (UK). After being bowled out for 212, Australia took four wickets in remaining day's play as South Africa finished at 43/4 and are railing by 169 in the first innings. It was Mitchell Starc who started the proceeding for Australia with venom and took out Aiden Markram in the very first over after the defending champions were bowled out for 212 in the first innings. Also Read - Rabada becomes second bowler to take five-for in WTC Final. First bowler was in Punjab Kings squad for IPL 2025 Starc followed that with Ryan Rickelton's wicket as South Africa lost second wicket for less than 20 runs. Australia skipper Pat Cummins then removed Sa number 3 Wiaan Mulder for the third scalp before Josh Hazlewood joined the party and removed Tristan Stubbs with a peach. Earlier, chasing their first ICC trophy, South Africa won the toss and skipper Temba Bavuma invited Australia to bat first in overcast conditions. South Africa pacers responded to captain's decision and bowled brilliant opening spell. It was Kagiso Rabada who broke through first and did so in some style. The Proteas pace spearhead sent back Usman Khawaja for a 20-ball duck before cleaning up returning all-rounder Cameron Green three balls later in the same over. Makeshift opener Marnus Labuschagne then added 30 runs with Smith before falling to a perfectly executed plan by Marco Jansen. At the stroke of lunch on day 1, Jansen struck again and took out dangerous Travis Head as Australia returned to dressing room at 67/4. In the second session, Australia fought back and scored 123 runs for the loss of Steve Smith's wicket who scored a magnificent 66 off 112. Come third session, South Africa started with a bang and took out Alex Carey quickly. From 192/6, Australia suffered a collapse and lost last four wickets for 20 runs. All-rounder Beau Webster top scored for Australia with a hard-fought 72.

World Test Championship (WTC) defending champions Australia finished on top after day 1 (June) of the WTC Final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's in London (UK).

WTC Final 2025, SA vs AUS Day 1: Australia finish on top in title defence despite Rabada's five-for

After much speculation, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Indian Premier League (IPL) have reached on a decision about participation of WTC Final-bound players in IPL playoffs. South Africa have as much as eight WTC Final-bound players signed up with multiple franchises.
These players, however, are set to be released on May 27 to prepare for the WTC Final, reported ESPNCricinfo. The IPL restarts on May 17 after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict.
The league stage gets over on May 27 and the playoffs begin on May 29 with the final to be scheduled on June 3. &nbsp;
Also Read -&nbsp;<a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/keep-the-pitch-aside-how-kohlis-india-dominated-in-overseas-tests-by-backing-pacers-9064005" aria-label="'Keep the pitch aside: How Kohli&rsquo;s India dominated in overseas Tests by backing pacers">'Keep the pitch aside: How Kohli&rsquo;s India dominated in overseas Tests by backing pacers</a>
The Proteas players which will not be part of the IPL playoffs for their respective teams are: Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch (both Mumbai Indians).
<h2>IPL allows franchises to name temporary replacements</h2>
In a memo issued to the franchise as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI has approved temporary replacements for the players who are not going to be the part of rescheduled season. As per the new schedule, the final will be played on June 3.
"Given the non-availability of certain foreign players due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," the league said.
The replacement players, however, won't be allowed to retain by the franchise ahead of the next year's auction, clarified IPL.
IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year.
The IPL was suspended after rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following India's strike on nine terror camps across in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

These players, however, are set to be released on May 27 to prepare for the WTC Final. The IPL restarts on May 17 after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict. Cricket Sports

After much speculation, Cricket South Africa (CSA) and Indian Premier League (IPL) have reached on a decision about participation of WTC Final-bound players in IPL playoffs. South Africa have as much as eight WTC Final-bound players signed up with multiple franchises. These players, however, are set to be released on May 27 to prepare for the WTC Final, reported ESPNCricinfo. The IPL restarts on May 17 after a brief hiatus due to India-Pakistan conflict. The league stage gets over on May 27 and the playoffs begin on May 29 with the final to be scheduled on June 3. Also Read - 'Keep the pitch aside: How Kohli’s India dominated in overseas Tests by backing pacers The Proteas players which will not be part of the IPL playoffs for their respective teams are: Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans), Aiden Markram (Lucknow Super Giants), Marco Jansen (Punjab Kings), Tristan Stubbs (Delhi Capitals), Lungi Ngidi (Royal Challengers Bengaluru), Wiaan Mulder (Sunrisers Hyderabad), Ryan Rickelton and Corbin Bosch (both Mumbai Indians). IPL allows franchises to name temporary replacements In a memo issued to the franchise as reported by the ESPNCricinfo, the BCCI has approved temporary replacements for the players who are not going to be the part of rescheduled season. As per the new schedule, the final will be played on June 3. "Given the non-availability of certain foreign players due to national commitments or personal reasons or any injury or illness, Temporary Replacement Players will be allowed until the conclusion of this tournament," the league said. The replacement players, however, won't be allowed to retain by the franchise ahead of the next year's auction, clarified IPL. IPL allows the teams to name replacement before the 12th match of the season and those replacements are eligible to be retained in the auction next year. The IPL was suspended after rise in tensions between India and Pakistan following India's strike on nine terror camps across in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in response to April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Eight WTC final-bound South Africa players to miss IPL playoffs - Report

Pat Cummins-led Australia have named their 15-man squad for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final as they take on South Africa in the only Test. The final set to take place at the iconic Lord&rsquo;s Cricket Ground in London will see the return of Cameron Green. The Aussie all-rounder missed the Sri Lanka series and the Champions Trophy along with the Indian Premier League, but has now recovered from the back issue to feature.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Cameron Green returns for Australia<o:p></o:p></h2>
One of the best Australian all-rounders in recent times, Green had recovered well for the Aussies, having missed cricket for the majority of the last year. Green last played for the Aussies in September 2024 against England and was missing from the squad thereafter due to injury. His last Test appearance came in March 2024 against New Zealand, after which he was largely troubled by injuries. <o:p></o:p>
The injury forced Green to miss the key series against India and Sri Lanka, while he also played no part in the Champions Trophy 2025, where Australia lost in the semis to India. He has represented Australia in 28 Test matches, scoring 1377 runs, including two hundreds. He has also scalped 35 wickets during the period. He recently returned to competitive action in English County cricket, representing Gloucestershire.<o:p></o:p>
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-ipl-2025-revised-schedule-tournament-to-restart-on-may-17-final-in-june-9062057" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June</a> 
On the other hand, the squad also features the return of Matt Kuhnemann, but is expected to play second fiddle to Nathan Lyon. Sam Konstas will also return to the squad for Australia as the selectors showed faith in him. He had earlier returned midway from the Sri Lanka series in January to play in the Sheffield Shield. He had a mixed India tour where Konstas was in and out of the squad. Brendan Doggett has been named a travelling reserve in case any injury affects the squad. <o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Australia squad for WTC final<o:p></o:p></h2>
Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster. Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett<o:p></o:p>

Pat Cummins-led Australia have named their 15-man squad for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final as they take on South Africa in the only Test. Cricket | Sports

Pat Cummins-led Australia have named their 15-man squad for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final as they take on South Africa in the only Test. The final set to take place at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London will see the return of Cameron Green. The Aussie all-rounder missed the Sri Lanka series and the Champions Trophy along with the Indian Premier League, but has now recovered from the back issue to feature. Cameron Green returns for Australia One of the best Australian all-rounders in recent times, Green had recovered well for the Aussies, having missed cricket for the majority of the last year. Green last played for the Aussies in September 2024 against England and was missing from the squad thereafter due to injury. His last Test appearance came in March 2024 against New Zealand, after which he was largely troubled by injuries. The injury forced Green to miss the key series against India and Sri Lanka, while he also played no part in the Champions Trophy 2025, where Australia lost in the semis to India. He has represented Australia in 28 Test matches, scoring 1377 runs, including two hundreds. He has also scalped 35 wickets during the period. He recently returned to competitive action in English County cricket, representing Gloucestershire. ALSO READ | BCCI releases IPL 2025 revised schedule, tournament to restart on May 17, final in June On the other hand, the squad also features the return of Matt Kuhnemann, but is expected to play second fiddle to Nathan Lyon. Sam Konstas will also return to the squad for Australia as the selectors showed faith in him. He had earlier returned midway from the Sri Lanka series in January to play in the Sheffield Shield. He had a mixed India tour where Konstas was in and out of the squad. Brendan Doggett has been named a travelling reserve in case any injury affects the squad. Australia squad for WTC final Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster. Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett

WTC Final: Pat Cummins-led Australia name 15-man squad, Cameron Green returns after back injury

Sri Lanka suffered their heaviest defeat in Test cricket history on Saturday as Australia flexed their muscles to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series with a crushing victory by an innings and 242 runs.&nbsp;
The contest was wrapped up before tea on day four, with rookie left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann's match-winning spell delivering him career-best figures of 9-149 over both innings.&nbsp;
"We were put under pressure," Sri Lanka skipper Dhananjaya de Silva said afterwards. "The batters should have put up a better show."
Kuhnemann underwent surgery only two weeks ago on a broken right thumb after an injury sustained during the Big Bash League and battled through the match in pain, requiring constant medical attention.
He was well-supported by the ever-dependable Nathan Lyon, who spun a web around the Sri Lankan batters to finish with seven wickets.
Sri Lanka's heaviest defeat before Saturday was in Nagpur in 2017, when India hammered them by an innings and 239 runs.
Sri Lanka resumed on 136 for five overnight, but their first innings folded for 165, losing their last five wickets for a mere nine runs.&nbsp;
Put straight back in to bat chasing 489, they lost three wickets before lunch and then capitulated in the second session to a humiliating finish for a team once renowned for its prowess on turning tracks.
Dinesh Chandimal had waged a lonely battle in the first innings by top-scoring with 72 and, with Angelo Mathews, stitched together one of the only two 50-plus partnerships in the second.&nbsp;
However, he was sent back for 31 on the last ball before lunch when he gloved Lyon to Travis Head at short leg.
Oshada Fernando failed to make an impact on his return to the side, and was undone by a sharp inswinger from Mitchell Starc that trapped him plumb in front for six after scoring just seven in the first innings.
Former skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's horror run with the bat continued after an avoidable dismissal for nought by Todd Murphy.&nbsp;
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/virat-kohlis-craze-hits-ranji-trophy-as-fans-breach-security-to-touch-his-feet-watch-8680817" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kohli-mania hits Ranji Trophy as fans breach security to touch his feet &ndash; Watch</a>
<h2>Tough place to play</h2>
Rain forced an early lunch on day three before washing out the final two sessions.&nbsp;
Australia declared on 654-6 late on the second day after opener Usman Khawaja's career-best 232.
"Galle is a tough place to play cricket and we are very happy with this win," Khawaja said.&nbsp;
"I've played a lot of cricket in Sri Lanka, this being my fifth tour. I've made lot of mistakes before. I guess all that experience came in handy in this game."
Stand-in skipper Steve Smith also had a game to remember, becoming only the fourth Australian to breach the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket on the first ball he faced.&nbsp;
He finished his innings with a masterful 141, while wicketkeeper Josh Inglis hit a century on debut.
Galle will host the second and final match of the series next week before a two-match ODI series in Colombo.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Sports, Cricket: Sri Lanka's heaviest defeat before Saturday was in Nagpur in 2017, when India hammered them by an innings and 239 as they stumble to new low. 

Sri Lanka suffered their heaviest defeat in Test cricket history on Saturday as Australia flexed their muscles to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series with a crushing victory by an innings and 242 runs. The contest was wrapped up before tea on day four, with rookie left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann's match-winning spell delivering him career-best figures of 9-149 over both innings. "We were put under pressure," Sri Lanka skipper Dhananjaya de Silva said afterwards. "The batters should have put up a better show." Kuhnemann underwent surgery only two weeks ago on a broken right thumb after an injury sustained during the Big Bash League and battled through the match in pain, requiring constant medical attention. He was well-supported by the ever-dependable Nathan Lyon, who spun a web around the Sri Lankan batters to finish with seven wickets. Sri Lanka's heaviest defeat before Saturday was in Nagpur in 2017, when India hammered them by an innings and 239 runs. Sri Lanka resumed on 136 for five overnight, but their first innings folded for 165, losing their last five wickets for a mere nine runs. Put straight back in to bat chasing 489, they lost three wickets before lunch and then capitulated in the second session to a humiliating finish for a team once renowned for its prowess on turning tracks. Dinesh Chandimal had waged a lonely battle in the first innings by top-scoring with 72 and, with Angelo Mathews, stitched together one of the only two 50-plus partnerships in the second. However, he was sent back for 31 on the last ball before lunch when he gloved Lyon to Travis Head at short leg. Oshada Fernando failed to make an impact on his return to the side, and was undone by a sharp inswinger from Mitchell Starc that trapped him plumb in front for six after scoring just seven in the first innings. Former skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's horror run with the bat continued after an avoidable dismissal for nought by Todd Murphy. ALSO READ | Kohli-mania hits Ranji Trophy as fans breach security to touch his feet – Watch Tough place to play Rain forced an early lunch on day three before washing out the final two sessions. Australia declared on 654-6 late on the second day after opener Usman Khawaja's career-best 232. "Galle is a tough place to play cricket and we are very happy with this win," Khawaja said. "I've played a lot of cricket in Sri Lanka, this being my fifth tour. I've made lot of mistakes before. I guess all that experience came in handy in this game." Stand-in skipper Steve Smith also had a game to remember, becoming only the fourth Australian to breach the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket on the first ball he faced. He finished his innings with a masterful 141, while wicketkeeper Josh Inglis hit a century on debut. Galle will host the second and final match of the series next week before a two-match ODI series in Colombo. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Sri Lanka crash to worst defeat as Australia build for WTC final

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada is hungry for more success after his side booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final last week. South Africa&rsquo;s latest win on Monday (Jan 6) against Pakistan will see them enter the WTC final as the home side after they secured the top spot. South Africa beat Pakistan by 10 wickets and will now play the Aussies at Lord&rsquo;s in June.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Rabada hungry for success<o:p></o:p></h2>
"South Africa versus Australia has always been an intense rivalry because we play cricket quite similar. We play hard - and they're going to come hard at us, and we know that.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
"But we also know how to beat them.<o:p></o:p>
"One hundred per cent, Test cricket is still alive. It's our best format that we've been playing right now," said Rabada.
South Africa secured the top spot in the WTC standings after winning the Test series against Pakistan 2-0 while Australia will finish second despite their 3-1 series win against India. The Proteas will have a shot at glory in an ICC tournament for the third time in 12 months having lost in the T20 World Cup final in both men&rsquo;s and women&rsquo;s tournaments.
ALSO READ | <a class="gh-archive-page-post-title-link" href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-trophy-2025-british-politicians-urge-england-to-boycott-afghanistan-clash-8597391" aria-label="Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash</a>
According to Rabada, his side has all the tools in the arsenal to beat Australia in the format. The two sides have met only once in a Test series in the last six years, with Australia pocketing the series 2-0 in 2022-23.<o:p></o:p>
Australia and South Africa&rsquo;s meeting in June will be one to watch out for as the Proteas target their first ICC Trophy at the men&rsquo;s senior-level after more than two decades. Australia on the other hand will look to become the first team to defend the WTC title having beaten India in the 2023 edition. The Aussies are also the ODI World Champion, beating India in the 2023 World Cup final.<o:p></o:p>

Sports, Cricket: South Africa secured the top spot in the WTC standings after winning the Test series against Pakistan 2-0 while Australia will finish second.

South Africa pacer Kagiso Rabada is hungry for more success after his side booked their place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final last week. South Africa’s latest win on Monday (Jan 6) against Pakistan will see them enter the WTC final as the home side after they secured the top spot. South Africa beat Pakistan by 10 wickets and will now play the Aussies at Lord’s in June. Rabada hungry for success "South Africa versus Australia has always been an intense rivalry because we play cricket quite similar. We play hard - and they're going to come hard at us, and we know that. "But we also know how to beat them. "One hundred per cent, Test cricket is still alive. It's our best format that we've been playing right now," said Rabada. South Africa secured the top spot in the WTC standings after winning the Test series against Pakistan 2-0 while Australia will finish second despite their 3-1 series win against India. The Proteas will have a shot at glory in an ICC tournament for the third time in 12 months having lost in the T20 World Cup final in both men’s and women’s tournaments. ALSO READ | Champions Trophy 2025: British politicians urge England to boycott Afghanistan clash According to Rabada, his side has all the tools in the arsenal to beat Australia in the format. The two sides have met only once in a Test series in the last six years, with Australia pocketing the series 2-0 in 2022-23. Australia and South Africa’s meeting in June will be one to watch out for as the Proteas target their first ICC Trophy at the men’s senior-level after more than two decades. Australia on the other hand will look to become the first team to defend the WTC title having beaten India in the 2023 edition. The Aussies are also the ODI World Champion, beating India in the 2023 World Cup final.

WTC 2025 Final: Kagiso Rabada hungry for success against Australia, 'We know how to beat them'

South Africa eased to a 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second Test on Monday in Cape Town to secure a 2-0 series win despite second-innings resistance from the tourists.
Forced to follow on 421 runs behind on the first innings, Pakistan battled to 478 all out but South Africa, who qualified for the World Test Championship final last week, easily knocked off a target of 58 late on the fourth day.
Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/babar-azam-loses-cool-after-wiaan-mulders-wild-return-throw-hits-him-during-cape-town-test-watch-8594704">Babar Azam loses cool over wild throw during Newlands Test</a>
David Bedingham hit 44 not out off 30 balls as South Africa sealed victory in just 7.1 overs.
Bedingham was opening in place of Ryan Rickelton, who suffered a hamstring strain in the field after scoring 259 in South Africa's first innings of 615.
Captain Shan Masood led Pakistan's fightback, scoring 145.
Masood fell to the second new ball, trapped leg before wicket by 18-year-old debutant Kwena Maphaka.
Masood's dismissal came three balls after Kagiso Rabada had Saud Shakeel caught at second slip for 23, ending a 51-run fourth-wicket stand.
Pakistan, a batter short after Saim Ayub suffered a broken ankle while fielding on the first morning, were still 92 runs in arrears after the double blow.
But Mohammad Rizwan (41) and Salman Agha (48) put on 88 for the sixth wicket and Aamer Jamal hit a quick 34 before the innings was ended.
South Africa's bowlers received virtually no assistance from a placid pitch.
Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who had been expected to be a major factor on a fourth day pitch, achieved minimal spin and toiled for 45 overs to take three for 137.
South Africa will go into the Test championship final against Australia at Lord's in June on the back of seven straight wins &ndash;- the second most successful sequence in their history.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Forced to follow, Pakistan battled to 478 all out but South Africa, who qualified for the WTC final last week, easily knocked off a target of 58. Sports Cricket

South Africa eased to a 10-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second Test on Monday in Cape Town to secure a 2-0 series win despite second-innings resistance from the tourists. Forced to follow on 421 runs behind on the first innings, Pakistan battled to 478 all out but South Africa, who qualified for the World Test Championship final last week, easily knocked off a target of 58 late on the fourth day. Also Watch: Babar Azam loses cool over wild throw during Newlands Test David Bedingham hit 44 not out off 30 balls as South Africa sealed victory in just 7.1 overs. Bedingham was opening in place of Ryan Rickelton, who suffered a hamstring strain in the field after scoring 259 in South Africa's first innings of 615. Captain Shan Masood led Pakistan's fightback, scoring 145. Masood fell to the second new ball, trapped leg before wicket by 18-year-old debutant Kwena Maphaka. Masood's dismissal came three balls after Kagiso Rabada had Saud Shakeel caught at second slip for 23, ending a 51-run fourth-wicket stand. Pakistan, a batter short after Saim Ayub suffered a broken ankle while fielding on the first morning, were still 92 runs in arrears after the double blow. But Mohammad Rizwan (41) and Salman Agha (48) put on 88 for the sixth wicket and Aamer Jamal hit a quick 34 before the innings was ended. South Africa's bowlers received virtually no assistance from a placid pitch. Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, who had been expected to be a major factor on a fourth day pitch, achieved minimal spin and toiled for 45 overs to take three for 137. South Africa will go into the Test championship final against Australia at Lord's in June on the back of seven straight wins –- the second most successful sequence in their history. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash

South African coach Shukri Conrad brushed off criticism about the uneven scheduling of the World Test Championship after his team qualified for the final.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa beat Pakistan in a dramatic two-wicket win in Centurion on Sunday to earn their sixth successive Test win.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-but-because-he-is-the-captain-irfan-pathans-honest-assessment-of-rohit-sharmas-place-in-team-after-mcg-test-debacle-8578745" rel="dofollow">BGT - Irfan Pathan reveals reason behind Rohit Sharma's selection amid form worry</a>
On the average points system used for the championship, the South Africans are guaranteed a place in the final next June, even if they lose their last match, the second Test against Pakistan, starting in Cape Town on Friday.<o:p></o:p>
"People abroad will be shouting that we had an easy draw. Well, I'm not going to apologise for that. We're just thrilled that we can be at Lord's next year," Conrad said after the victory against Pakistan.<o:p></o:p>
Australia's win against India in Melbourne on Monday put them in pole position to join South Africa at Lord's, although they still have to play a fifth Test against India and two matches away against Sri Lanka.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa's path to the final illustrated the imbalance in the quantity and quality of the fixtures for the nine teams contesting the World Test Championship (WTC), a fact highlighted by former England captain Michael Vaughan, who called for a revamp of the format.<o:p></o:p>
"At the moment every team plays a wildly different number of games, and that just does not create a balanced outcome or totally fair league table," Vaughan wrote in a column for British daily The Telegraph.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Different teams, different schedule</h2>
South Africa&rsquo;s programme consisted of just 12 matches, the joint lowest number together with Bangladesh.<o:p></o:p>
England played 22 Tests, and Australia and India, the other members of cricket&rsquo;s 'big three', had 19 fixtures each.<o:p></o:p>
South Africa had six series, all of only two matches. They shared a series against India 1-1 but did not play against Australia or England.<o:p></o:p>
Australia, India, and England, by contrast, played each other in a five-match 'marquee' series.<o:p></o:p>
With no team dominating, they all shed points, affecting their average points standings.<o:p></o:p>
After sharing the honours against India, South Africa effectively forfeited a series in New Zealand because their governing body prioritised a Twenty20 tournament.<o:p></o:p>
Conrad could not select any players contracted by the T20 franchises, which ruled out most of his first-choice players.<o:p></o:p>
Since then, though, South Africa have won away series in the West Indies and Bangladesh and beaten Sri Lanka at home before scraping home against Pakistan.<o:p></o:p>
Conrad admitted that his team were far from their best at Centurion, needing an unbeaten ninth wicket stand of 51 between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win.<o:p></o:p>
"The WTC weighs on you, you really want to get to the final, but we need to be a lot more resilient and clinical. We saw what pressure did to some of our players, but they will grow enormously from the experience."<o:p></o:p>
"We are so much better than we showed in this match, but we want this team to never know when they are beaten, and we want the opposition to know that too," said Conrad.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Cricket: Conrad admitted that his team were far from their best at Centurion, needing an unbeaten ninth wicket stand of 51 between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win.

South African coach Shukri Conrad brushed off criticism about the uneven scheduling of the World Test Championship after his team qualified for the final. South Africa beat Pakistan in a dramatic two-wicket win in Centurion on Sunday to earn their sixth successive Test win. Also read | BGT - Irfan Pathan reveals reason behind Rohit Sharma's selection amid form worry On the average points system used for the championship, the South Africans are guaranteed a place in the final next June, even if they lose their last match, the second Test against Pakistan, starting in Cape Town on Friday. "People abroad will be shouting that we had an easy draw. Well, I'm not going to apologise for that. We're just thrilled that we can be at Lord's next year," Conrad said after the victory against Pakistan. Australia's win against India in Melbourne on Monday put them in pole position to join South Africa at Lord's, although they still have to play a fifth Test against India and two matches away against Sri Lanka. South Africa's path to the final illustrated the imbalance in the quantity and quality of the fixtures for the nine teams contesting the World Test Championship (WTC), a fact highlighted by former England captain Michael Vaughan, who called for a revamp of the format. "At the moment every team plays a wildly different number of games, and that just does not create a balanced outcome or totally fair league table," Vaughan wrote in a column for British daily The Telegraph. Different teams, different schedule South Africa’s programme consisted of just 12 matches, the joint lowest number together with Bangladesh. England played 22 Tests, and Australia and India, the other members of cricket’s 'big three', had 19 fixtures each. South Africa had six series, all of only two matches. They shared a series against India 1-1 but did not play against Australia or England. Australia, India, and England, by contrast, played each other in a five-match 'marquee' series. With no team dominating, they all shed points, affecting their average points standings. After sharing the honours against India, South Africa effectively forfeited a series in New Zealand because their governing body prioritised a Twenty20 tournament. Conrad could not select any players contracted by the T20 franchises, which ruled out most of his first-choice players. Since then, though, South Africa have won away series in the West Indies and Bangladesh and beaten Sri Lanka at home before scraping home against Pakistan. Conrad admitted that his team were far from their best at Centurion, needing an unbeaten ninth wicket stand of 51 between Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada to secure the win. "The WTC weighs on you, you really want to get to the final, but we need to be a lot more resilient and clinical. We saw what pressure did to some of our players, but they will grow enormously from the experience." "We are so much better than we showed in this match, but we want this team to never know when they are beaten, and we want the opposition to know that too," said Conrad. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Coach Conrad unapologetic about South Africa's easy route to WTC Final

India, Australia and Sri Lanka - all remain in contention for the one remaining spot in the WTC Final 2025. After South Africa became the first team to qualify directly for the summit clash scheduled for June 2025 at Lord&rsquo;s, Australia strengthened their chances of reaching their second WTC Final on the trot after beating India in the fourth BGT Test at the MCG by 184 runs.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m5azks8z-2rgj202h-drhmkm1o">
LYON DOES IT! What a remarkable win for Australia! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/SGbA3R797X">pic.twitter.com/SGbA3R797X</a>
&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/1873617184385077618?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
Though that win hasn&rsquo;t guaranteed them a spot in the grand finale yet, it squashed India&rsquo;s chances of making it thrice in a row, leaving the final match of the marquee series at the SCG to decide their fate. It remains bleak, but they still have an outside chance of reaching the WTC Final and completing their trophy cabinet with the only ICC title that has eluded them till now.
<h2>How can India still qualify for WTC Final after MCG loss?</h2>
India lost the fourth Test at the MCG&mdash;their second of the series to the hosts, conceding the lead they took after bagging a massive win in the series opener in Perth. With the scoreline reading 2-1 in Australia&rsquo;s favour, they are beaming confidently, entering the fifth Test of the series with an upper hand over India.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-pat-cummins-rates-mcg-test-win-over-india-his-greatest-ever-in-australian-jersey-8577760" rel="dofollow">BGT &ndash; Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his &lsquo;greatest ever&rsquo;</a>
For India to reach the WTC Final 2025, they must not only beat Australia significantly but also hope for other results to fall in place for them. Should India win at the SCG, their PCT (of 55.26) would be enough for them to finish second if Australia achieves no more than just a draw in two Tests in Sri Lanka. In that case, Australia&rsquo;s PCT would read 53.51, while Sri Lanka would finish at 48.72 (with one win).&nbsp;
However, in case of a draw in the final match of the series, India&rsquo;s PCT would drop to 51.75, ruling them out of the WTC Final race; and this is because even if Australia play a draw at the SCG and lose to Sri Lanka 0-2, they would finish on 53.51, while Sri Lanka would climb up to 53.85, piping India and Australia to qualify for their maiden WTC Final.
<h3>Which team stands a better chance?</h3>
Following the win in the MCG Test, Australia is a frontrunner to qualify for the WTC Final 2025 and face South Africa in the clash of titans.&nbsp;
Should they beat India at the SCG Test starting January 3 next year, Australia will qualify regardless of the result against Sri Lanka that follows.&nbsp;
If they win the final Test in Sydney, which sees them bagging the coveted BGT after ten years, and lose the two games in the Island Nation, their PCT would read 57.02 compared to India&rsquo;s 50 and Sri Lanka&rsquo;s 53.85.&nbsp;
(With inputs from agencies)

Cricket: South Africa qualified for their maiden WTC Final 2025 after beating Pakistan in the first Test in Centurion. India, Australia and Sri Lanka, all remain active in race. 

India, Australia and Sri Lanka - all remain in contention for the one remaining spot in the WTC Final 2025. After South Africa became the first team to qualify directly for the summit clash scheduled for June 2025 at Lord’s, Australia strengthened their chances of reaching their second WTC Final on the trot after beating India in the fourth BGT Test at the MCG by 184 runs. LYON DOES IT! What a remarkable win for Australia! #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/SGbA3R797X — cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 30, 2024 Though that win hasn’t guaranteed them a spot in the grand finale yet, it squashed India’s chances of making it thrice in a row, leaving the final match of the marquee series at the SCG to decide their fate. It remains bleak, but they still have an outside chance of reaching the WTC Final and completing their trophy cabinet with the only ICC title that has eluded them till now. How can India still qualify for WTC Final after MCG loss? India lost the fourth Test at the MCG—their second of the series to the hosts, conceding the lead they took after bagging a massive win in the series opener in Perth. With the scoreline reading 2-1 in Australia’s favour, they are beaming confidently, entering the fifth Test of the series with an upper hand over India. Also read | BGT – Pat Cummins rates MCG Test win over India his ‘greatest ever’ For India to reach the WTC Final 2025, they must not only beat Australia significantly but also hope for other results to fall in place for them. Should India win at the SCG, their PCT (of 55.26) would be enough for them to finish second if Australia achieves no more than just a draw in two Tests in Sri Lanka. In that case, Australia’s PCT would read 53.51, while Sri Lanka would finish at 48.72 (with one win). However, in case of a draw in the final match of the series, India’s PCT would drop to 51.75, ruling them out of the WTC Final race; and this is because even if Australia play a draw at the SCG and lose to Sri Lanka 0-2, they would finish on 53.51, while Sri Lanka would climb up to 53.85, piping India and Australia to qualify for their maiden WTC Final. Which team stands a better chance? Following the win in the MCG Test, Australia is a frontrunner to qualify for the WTC Final 2025 and face South Africa in the clash of titans. Should they beat India at the SCG Test starting January 3 next year, Australia will qualify regardless of the result against Sri Lanka that follows. If they win the final Test in Sydney, which sees them bagging the coveted BGT after ten years, and lose the two games in the Island Nation, their PCT would read 57.02 compared to India’s 50 and Sri Lanka’s 53.85. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained - How India can reach the WTC Final after losing MCG Test

India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 qualification chances took a severe hit after South Africa beat Pakistan on Sunday (Dec 29) to become the first finalist. India, looking for their third consecutive <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/wtc-final-2025" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Final</a>, will now have to win the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 3-1 to stay independent of other results.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-final-scenarios-2025-south-africa-enter-final-after-win-over-pakistan-india-australia-in-contention-8575588">WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan</a>
<h2>India's Chances for WTC Final Scenarios</h2>
India were firmly in control of their own fate, but a 0-3 loss at home vs New Zealand before BGT left them with too many fires to douse. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-pink-ball-test-australia-level-series-in-adelaide-after-cummins-starc-heroics-782394" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">loss in the second BGT Test in Adelaide</a> also added fuel to those fires, and India now stare at a huge task ahead of them to make it to the WTC Final. Here's how India can make it to the WTC Final 2025:
<h3>India Beat Australia 3-1 in BGT</h3>
The fourth Test of the series at MCG has one day left, and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-mcg-test-aussie-tail-frustrates-india-after-jasprit-bumrahs-heroic-spell-on-day-4-8574972" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australia lead by 330+ plus runs</a>. India would have to produce a chase for the history to win the game before the series, tied at 1-1, goes to Sydney.
If India somehow manages to win both Melbourne and Sydney ties, they'll face South Africa in the WTC Final 2025.
<h3>India Beat Australia 2-1 in BGT</h3>
If India draw the ongoing Melbourne game and win the fifth Test in Sydney to take the series 2-1, then Australia would need to win their upcoming away two-Test series against Sri Lanka 2-0. If Australia fail to win their series in Sri Lanka, India take the second spot in the final.
<h3>India Draw BGT 2-2 vs Australia</h3>
In case Australia win the Melbourne Test and then lose the Sydney one or vice-versa, Australia will then have to lose their series against Sri Lanka at least 0-1. Any other result will see Australia taking the second WTC Final 2025 spot alongside South Africa.
<h3>India Draw BGT 1-1 vs Australia</h3>
If India and Australia play the ongoing Test and next one in Sydney as draw then Australia would have to lose the series 0-1 or draw for India to qualify.
In case Sri Lanka win the series 2-0 vs Australia after BGT ends in 1-1 draw, then both India and Australia would be knocked out, and Sri Lanka will play the WTC 2025 Final.

Sports Cricket: India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 qualification chances took a severe hit after South Africa beat Pakistan to become the first finalist.

India's World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 qualification chances took a severe hit after South Africa beat Pakistan on Sunday (Dec 29) to become the first finalist. India, looking for their third consecutive WTC Final, will now have to win the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 3-1 to stay independent of other results. Also Read: WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan India's Chances for WTC Final Scenarios India were firmly in control of their own fate, but a 0-3 loss at home vs New Zealand before BGT left them with too many fires to douse. The loss in the second BGT Test in Adelaide also added fuel to those fires, and India now stare at a huge task ahead of them to make it to the WTC Final. Here's how India can make it to the WTC Final 2025: India Beat Australia 3-1 in BGT The fourth Test of the series at MCG has one day left, and Australia lead by 330+ plus runs. India would have to produce a chase for the history to win the game before the series, tied at 1-1, goes to Sydney. If India somehow manages to win both Melbourne and Sydney ties, they'll face South Africa in the WTC Final 2025. India Beat Australia 2-1 in BGT If India draw the ongoing Melbourne game and win the fifth Test in Sydney to take the series 2-1, then Australia would need to win their upcoming away two-Test series against Sri Lanka 2-0. If Australia fail to win their series in Sri Lanka, India take the second spot in the final. India Draw BGT 2-2 vs Australia In case Australia win the Melbourne Test and then lose the Sydney one or vice-versa, Australia will then have to lose their series against Sri Lanka at least 0-1. Any other result will see Australia taking the second WTC Final 2025 spot alongside South Africa. India Draw BGT 1-1 vs Australia If India and Australia play the ongoing Test and next one in Sydney as draw then Australia would have to lose the series 0-1 or draw for India to qualify. In case Sri Lanka win the series 2-0 vs Australia after BGT ends in 1-1 draw, then both India and Australia would be knocked out, and Sri Lanka will play the WTC 2025 Final.

WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read

South Africa has become the first team to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 after a thrilling win over Pakistan in the first Test on Sunday (Dec 29). The Proteas just needed to win one of the two games of their home Test series against Pakistan to enter their maiden WTC Final.
The Internatioal Cricket Council (ICC) also confirmed the same with a post on social medial platform X. Here's the post below:
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m59jga4l-qno0uto1-r1qxvcgh">
𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙎𝙏 𝙁𝙄𝙉𝘼𝙇𝙄𝙎𝙏 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙈𝙀𝘿 🇿🇦 South Africa are headed to Lord's for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> Final 🤩 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvPAK</a> ➡ <a href="https://t.co/vWLh4MSQjm">https://t.co/vWLh4MSQjm</a> <a href="https://t.co/sZ5QBnDAYD">pic.twitter.com/sZ5QBnDAYD</a>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1873329612169552313?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
South Africa's chances were bightened up after India's 0-3 loss to New Zealand at home but them making it to the final speaks volume about their abilities too.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/wtc-standings-gabba-draw-puts-india-in-must-win-territory-ahead-of-boxing-day-test-784931" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test</a>
Chasing a modest 148 to win the first Test against Pakistan, SA were cruising alsong at 62/3 before the visiting bowlers wrested back the control. SA went into the lunch on day 4 at 99/8, still needing 48 runs to win with two wickets left.
Kagiso Rabada (31 off 26 balls) and Marco Jansen (16 off 24) then added 51 runs for the ninth wicket to take SA to a thrilling win.
<h2>WTC Final 2025 Scenarios</h2>
With SA being confirmed as one of the finalists, only one of Australia and India can grab the second spot. Australia, which are second on the points tally, can still make it to the final despite drawing their ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series 2-2 vs India. Australia, however, would need to win their next series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka after BGT ends in draw.
For India, they have to win the ongoing BGT 3-1 to ensure their qualification in the WTC Final and if they fail to do so, their qualification will rest on the other teams' results, especially Australia vs Sri Lanka.

Sports Cricket - WTC Final Scenarios: As SA enter their maiden WTC Final 2025, only one of India and Australia will be taking the second spot.

South Africa has become the first team to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 after a thrilling win over Pakistan in the first Test on Sunday (Dec 29). The Proteas just needed to win one of the two games of their home Test series against Pakistan to enter their maiden WTC Final. The Internatioal Cricket Council (ICC) also confirmed the same with a post on social medial platform X. Here's the post below: 𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙎𝙏 𝙁𝙄𝙉𝘼𝙇𝙄𝙎𝙏 𝘾𝙊𝙉𝙁𝙄𝙍𝙈𝙀𝘿 🇿🇦 South Africa are headed to Lord's for the #WTC25 Final 🤩 #SAvPAK ➡ https://t.co/vWLh4MSQjm pic.twitter.com/sZ5QBnDAYD — ICC (@ICC) December 29, 2024 South Africa's chances were bightened up after India's 0-3 loss to New Zealand at home but them making it to the final speaks volume about their abilities too. Also Read: WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test Chasing a modest 148 to win the first Test against Pakistan, SA were cruising alsong at 62/3 before the visiting bowlers wrested back the control. SA went into the lunch on day 4 at 99/8, still needing 48 runs to win with two wickets left. Kagiso Rabada (31 off 26 balls) and Marco Jansen (16 off 24) then added 51 runs for the ninth wicket to take SA to a thrilling win. WTC Final 2025 Scenarios With SA being confirmed as one of the finalists, only one of Australia and India can grab the second spot. Australia, which are second on the points tally, can still make it to the final despite drawing their ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series 2-2 vs India. Australia, however, would need to win their next series against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka after BGT ends in draw. For India, they have to win the ongoing BGT 3-1 to ensure their qualification in the WTC Final and if they fail to do so, their qualification will rest on the other teams' results, especially Australia vs Sri Lanka.

WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan

Brisbane, Australia
India’s bid to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) is now in a “must-win” territory after their latest draw against Australia at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18). The draw at Gabba leaves Rohit Sharma and Co in third spot and will now have to win at least one of their remaining two matches in the current cycle. Australia on the other hand sit second despite the draw but will have to be at their best for the remaining contests to avoid elimination from the race to the final, which takes place at Lord’s in June 2025.
<h2>India in ‘must-win’ territory</h2>
The latest draw in Gabba leaves India with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 as they occupy the third spot while Australia, currently in second have a PCT of 58.89. With just two matches remaining in the WTC cycle, India must win at least one of their matches to qualify for the WTC final. However, a defeat in either match will see them leave their fate out of their own hands.
<h2>What are India’s equations to qualify for the WTC final?</h2>
India have to win at least one remaining match against Australia, which gives them a better chance to fight for a place in the final in WTC. A draw coupled with a win will see India pocket the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, but in this case, they will need a favour from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka should draw at least one of the two matches against Australia which will India qualify for the final.
ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a>
<ol>
<li>If India wins BGT 3-1, then India will qualify for the WTC final</li>
<li>If India wins BGT 2-1, then Sri Lanka needs to draw or win at least one match against Australia</li>
<li>If India draw BGT 1-1, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia</li>
<li>If India draw BGT 2-2, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia</li>
</ol>
Any other result apart from the above equations will see India miss out on the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025.
*Note: All calculations are done considering there is no points deduction for slow overrate.

The draw at Gabba leaves Rohit Sharma and Co in third spot and will now have to win at least one of their remaining two matches in the current cycle. Australia on the other hand sit second despite the draw but will have to be at their best for the remaining contests to avoid elimination from the race to the final, which takes place at Lord’s in June 2025.



Brisbane, Australia India’s bid to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) is now in a “must-win” territory after their latest draw against Australia at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18). The draw at Gabba leaves Rohit Sharma and Co in third spot and will now have to win at least one of their remaining two matches in the current cycle. Australia on the other hand sit second despite the draw but will have to be at their best for the remaining contests to avoid elimination from the race to the final, which takes place at Lord’s in June 2025. India in ‘must-win’ territory The latest draw in Gabba leaves India with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 as they occupy the third spot while Australia, currently in second have a PCT of 58.89. With just two matches remaining in the WTC cycle, India must win at least one of their matches to qualify for the WTC final. However, a defeat in either match will see them leave their fate out of their own hands. What are India’s equations to qualify for the WTC final? India have to win at least one remaining match against Australia, which gives them a better chance to fight for a place in the final in WTC. A draw coupled with a win will see India pocket the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, but in this case, they will need a favour from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka should draw at least one of the two matches against Australia which will India qualify for the final. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand If India wins BGT 3-1, then India will qualify for the WTC final If India wins BGT 2-1, then Sri Lanka needs to draw or win at least one match against Australia If India draw BGT 1-1, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia If India draw BGT 2-2, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia Any other result apart from the above equations will see India miss out on the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025. *Note: All calculations are done considering there is no points deduction for slow overrate.

WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test

India’s bid to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) is now in a “must-win” territory after their latest draw against Australia at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18). The draw at Gabba leaves Rohit Sharma and Co in third spot and will now have to win at least one of their remaining two matches in the current cycle. Australia on the other hand sit second despite the draw but will have to be at their best for the remaining contests to avoid elimination from the race to the final, which takes place at Lord’s in June 2025.

<h2>India in ‘must-win’ territory</h2>

The latest draw in Gabba leaves India with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 as they occupy the third spot while Australia, currently in second have a PCT of 58.89. With just two matches remaining in the WTC cycle, India must win at least one of their matches to qualify for the WTC final. However, a defeat in either match will see them leave their fate out of their own hands.

<h2>What are India’s equations to qualify for the WTC final?</h2>

India have to win at least one remaining match against Australia, which gives them a better chance to fight for a place in the final in WTC. A draw coupled with a win will see India pocket the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, but in this case, they will need a favour from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka should draw at least one of the two matches against Australia which will India qualify for the final.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/mitchell-santner-takes-over-as-new-white-ball-captain-of-new-zealand-784862">Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand</a>

<ol>
	<li>If India wins BGT 3-1, then India will qualify for the WTC final</li>
	<li>If India wins BGT 2-1, then Sri Lanka needs to draw or win at least one match against Australia</li>
	<li>If India draw BGT 1-1, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia</li>
	<li>If India draw BGT 2-2, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia</li>
</ol>

Any other result apart from the above equations will see India miss out on the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025.

*Note: All calculations are done considering there is no points deduction for slow overrate.

India’s bid to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) is now in a “must-win” territory after their latest draw against Australia at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18).

India’s bid to qualify for the World Test Championship (WTC) is now in a “must-win” territory after their latest draw against Australia at Gabba on Wednesday (Dec 18). The draw at Gabba leaves Rohit Sharma and Co in third spot and will now have to win at least one of their remaining two matches in the current cycle. Australia on the other hand sit second despite the draw but will have to be at their best for the remaining contests to avoid elimination from the race to the final, which takes place at Lord’s in June 2025. India in ‘must-win’ territory The latest draw in Gabba leaves India with a win percentage (PCT) of 55.88 as they occupy the third spot while Australia, currently in second have a PCT of 58.89. With just two matches remaining in the WTC cycle, India must win at least one of their matches to qualify for the WTC final. However, a defeat in either match will see them leave their fate out of their own hands. What are India’s equations to qualify for the WTC final? India have to win at least one remaining match against Australia, which gives them a better chance to fight for a place in the final in WTC. A draw coupled with a win will see India pocket the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2-1, but in this case, they will need a favour from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka should draw at least one of the two matches against Australia which will India qualify for the final. ALSO READ | Mitchell Santner takes over as new white-ball captain of New Zealand If India wins BGT 3-1, then India will qualify for the WTC final If India wins BGT 2-1, then Sri Lanka needs to draw or win at least one match against Australia If India draw BGT 1-1, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia If India draw BGT 2-2, then Sri Lanka must draw or win at least one of their matches against Australia Any other result apart from the above equations will see India miss out on the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025. *Note: All calculations are done considering there is no points deduction for slow overrate.

With less than seven months to go for the World Test Championship (WTC), the race to play at Lord’s in the summit clash has heated up with recent wins for Australia and South Africa. With India losing their grip in the race for the top two in the standings, Temba Bavmua’s South Africa and Pat Cummins’ Australia are in pole position to reach the final. So with limited matches to go, here are all the permutations for all teams to qualify for the WTC final.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
South Africa on 🔝 
 
The Proteas displace Australia at the summit of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> standings after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvSL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvSL</a> series sweep 👊 
 
Latest state of play 👉 <a href="https://t.co/1TUUJ5ThVs">https://t.co/1TUUJ5ThVs</a> <a href="https://t.co/bXizReyaAu">pic.twitter.com/bXizReyaAu</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1866098157538381876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>1. India</h2>

P 16 | W 9 | D 1 | L 6 | Pen -2 | Points 110 | PCT% 57.29

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Three v Australia (away)

Form guide:&nbsp;L&nbsp;W&nbsp;L L L W&nbsp;

With just three matches to go, India’s chances of reaching a third successive WTC final now hang in balance after defeats to New Zealand and Australia in the Adelaide Test. India’s best chance of reaching the WTC final is if they win all three remaining Border-Gavaskar trophy matches and pocket the series 4-1. However, any other result will see them at the mercy of other teams dropping points, meaning India will have to depend on other teams and results.

<h2>2. Australia</h2>

P 14 | W 9 | D 1 | L 4 | Pen -10 | Points 102 | PCT% 60.71

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Three v India (home), two v Sri Lanka (away)

Form guide:&nbsp;W&nbsp;L W W L W&nbsp;

With five matches still to go in the WTC cycle and three on home turf, Australia will fancy their chances of reaching the final. If they lose the current BGT series by 4-1 they will have to depend on other teams to make the summit clash. However, a 4-1 series win should see them reach the final while a 3-1 or 2-1 series win coupled with a win in Sri Lanka will see them qualify.

The only way Australia miss out on the final is if they fail to win two or fewer matches while other teams get maximum points.

<h2>3. South Africa</h2>

P 10 | W 6 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen 0 | Points 76 | PCT% 63.33

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Two v Pakistan (home)

Form guide (most recent first):&nbsp;W W W W W D&nbsp;

South Africa were fifth before the first Test series against Sri Lanka but have jumped up to the top spot following two very impressive wins at home. A single victory in either of their two remaining Tests at home against Pakistan will secure them the spot in the WTC Final for the first time.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-2024-25-doesnt-deserve-kapil-dev-on-jasprit-bumrah-replacing-rohit-sharma-as-india-test-skipper-782768">BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper</a>

<h2>4. Sri Lanka</h2>

P 11 | W 5 | D 0 | L 6 | Pen 0 | Points 60 | PCT% 45.45

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Two v Australia (home)

Form guide:&nbsp;L L W W W L&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sri Lanka's 0-2 loss to South Africa isn't the end of the world for the plucky Lankans. But, they'll need a massive favour from Pakistan to make it happen. If Pakistan win both Tests against South Africa, and then Sri Lanka defeat Australia 2-0 at home, SL would go through regardless of the result of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.&nbsp;

With less than seven months to go for the World Test Championship (WTC), the race to play at Lord’s in the summit clash has heated up with recent wins for Australia and South Africa.

With less than seven months to go for the World Test Championship (WTC), the race to play at Lord’s in the summit clash has heated up with recent wins for Australia and South Africa. With India losing their grip in the race for the top two in the standings, Temba Bavmua’s South Africa and Pat Cummins’ Australia are in pole position to reach the final. So with limited matches to go, here are all the permutations for all teams to qualify for the WTC final. South Africa on 🔝 The Proteas displace Australia at the summit of the #WTC25 standings after #SAvSL series sweep 👊 Latest state of play 👉 https://t.co/1TUUJ5ThVs pic.twitter.com/bXizReyaAu — ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2024 × 1. India P 16 | W 9 | D 1 | L 6 | Pen -2 | Points 110 | PCT% 57.29 Remaining Tests: Three v Australia (away) Form guide: L W L L L W With just three matches to go, India’s chances of reaching a third successive WTC final now hang in balance after defeats to New Zealand and Australia in the Adelaide Test. India’s best chance of reaching the WTC final is if they win all three remaining Border-Gavaskar trophy matches and pocket the series 4-1. However, any other result will see them at the mercy of other teams dropping points, meaning India will have to depend on other teams and results. 2. Australia P 14 | W 9 | D 1 | L 4 | Pen -10 | Points 102 | PCT% 60.71 Remaining Tests: Three v India (home), two v Sri Lanka (away) Form guide: W L W W L W With five matches still to go in the WTC cycle and three on home turf, Australia will fancy their chances of reaching the final. If they lose the current BGT series by 4-1 they will have to depend on other teams to make the summit clash. However, a 4-1 series win should see them reach the final while a 3-1 or 2-1 series win coupled with a win in Sri Lanka will see them qualify. The only way Australia miss out on the final is if they fail to win two or fewer matches while other teams get maximum points. 3. South Africa P 10 | W 6 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen 0 | Points 76 | PCT% 63.33 Remaining Tests: Two v Pakistan (home) Form guide (most recent first): W W W W W D South Africa were fifth before the first Test series against Sri Lanka but have jumped up to the top spot following two very impressive wins at home. A single victory in either of their two remaining Tests at home against Pakistan will secure them the spot in the WTC Final for the first time. ALSO READ | BGT 2024-25: 'Doesn't deserve...,' Kapil Dev on Jasprit Bumrah replacing Rohit Sharma as India Test skipper 4. Sri Lanka P 11 | W 5 | D 0 | L 6 | Pen 0 | Points 60 | PCT% 45.45 Remaining Tests: Two v Australia (home) Form guide: L L W W W L Sri Lanka's 0-2 loss to South Africa isn't the end of the world for the plucky Lankans. But, they'll need a massive favour from Pakistan to make it happen. If Pakistan win both Tests against South Africa, and then Sri Lanka defeat Australia 2-0 at home, SL would go through regardless of the result of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Here's how India, Australia and other teams can reach World Test Championship final

Temba Bavuma-led South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 109 runs in the second and final Test at the&nbsp;St George's Park, Gqeberha on Monday (Dec 9). Day 5 started with Dhananjaya de Silva-led tourists being 205-5 in pursuit of 348 in Gqeberha. With both sides pretty much in contention for a win, they kicked off the final day's play where Keshav Maharaj led the charge as he bagged 5 for 76 that helped dismiss&nbsp;the Lankans for 238 in the morning session. As a result, SA inflicted a series whitewash and added 12 vital points to&nbsp;their kitty in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table.

With this win, the Proteas are on the cusp of qualifying for the WTC final, to be held at Lord's in mid-June. Notably, they are just one win away from cementing a spot. Their next Test series is at home, a two-match series versus Pakistan starting on Dec. 26. Ahead of the series, here's a look at the WTC points table:

<img alt="WTC Points table SA vs SL" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e491a82e-4e5e-4ea5-9ba5-d05ab652eb15" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WTC%20SA%20vs%20SL.JPG" />

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/sa-vs-sl-2nd-test-keshav-maharaj-bowls-south-africa-to-109-run-win-complete-series-whitewash-782643">SA vs SL, 2nd Test: Keshav Maharaj bowls South Africa to 109-run win, complete series whitewash</a>

Thus, SA have moved to the top with two other contenders Australia and India at the second and third spots&nbsp;respectively.

Talking about the SA-SL 2nd Test, the hosts opted to bat first and rode on Ryan Rickelton's 101 and keeper-batter&nbsp;Kyle Verreynne's 105 to post 358. In reply, SL were 261-3 but ended up with 328, conceding a slender 30-run lead. After that, the Proteas rode on vital knocks from Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs and&nbsp;David Bedingham to post 317, setting up a 348-run target. While SL had their moments, they fell apart on the final day to lose convincingly.

At the post-match presentation, Bavuma said, "This Test match was a proper test of Test cricket, it's not often that you get to play on 5 days. There were times when we were on top, at times Sri Lanka looked good. A lot of credit to them, they really made us work hard, the batting was outstanding with seven of them having made centuries at this level. We'll take a lot of pride as batters, Ashwell (Prince, the batting coach) talks a lot about taking the opportunities, all of us are really happy for Rickelton who took his chances here. Jansen did well in the first Test, Paterson did well here. I think we're doing well as a team, no. 1 in the WTC table as of now, don't know what'll happen in the future, but we'll celebrate today."

Temba Bavuma-led South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 109 runs in the second and final Test at the St George's Park, Gqeberha on Monday (Dec 9). Day 5 started with Dhananjaya de Silva-led tourists being 205-5 in pursuit of 348 in Gqeberha.

Temba Bavuma-led South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 109 runs in the second and final Test at the St George's Park, Gqeberha on Monday (Dec 9). Day 5 started with Dhananjaya de Silva-led tourists being 205-5 in pursuit of 348 in Gqeberha. With both sides pretty much in contention for a win, they kicked off the final day's play where Keshav Maharaj led the charge as he bagged 5 for 76 that helped dismiss the Lankans for 238 in the morning session. As a result, SA inflicted a series whitewash and added 12 vital points to their kitty in the ongoing 2023-25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) points table. With this win, the Proteas are on the cusp of qualifying for the WTC final, to be held at Lord's in mid-June. Notably, they are just one win away from cementing a spot. Their next Test series is at home, a two-match series versus Pakistan starting on Dec. 26. Ahead of the series, here's a look at the WTC points table: Also read: SA vs SL, 2nd Test: Keshav Maharaj bowls South Africa to 109-run win, complete series whitewash Thus, SA have moved to the top with two other contenders Australia and India at the second and third spots respectively. Talking about the SA-SL 2nd Test, the hosts opted to bat first and rode on Ryan Rickelton's 101 and keeper-batter Kyle Verreynne's 105 to post 358. In reply, SL were 261-3 but ended up with 328, conceding a slender 30-run lead. After that, the Proteas rode on vital knocks from Bavuma, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham to post 317, setting up a 348-run target. While SL had their moments, they fell apart on the final day to lose convincingly. At the post-match presentation, Bavuma said, "This Test match was a proper test of Test cricket, it's not often that you get to play on 5 days. There were times when we were on top, at times Sri Lanka looked good. A lot of credit to them, they really made us work hard, the batting was outstanding with seven of them having made centuries at this level. We'll take a lot of pride as batters, Ashwell (Prince, the batting coach) talks a lot about taking the opportunities, all of us are really happy for Rickelton who took his chances here. Jansen did well in the first Test, Paterson did well here. I think we're doing well as a team, no. 1 in the WTC table as of now, don't know what'll happen in the future, but we'll celebrate today."

SA vs SL: Updated WTC 2023-25 points table after South Africa's series whitewash vs Sri Lanka

Keshav Maharaj took five wickets and helped South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 109 runs on the fifth day of the second Test at St George's Park on Monday. Left-arm spinner Maharaj picked up 5-76 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 238. They lost their remaining five wickets for 33 runs on Monday. The win gave South Africa a 2-0 series win and took them to the top of the World Test championship table.

Sri Lanka's hopes of an upset win were extinguished when overnight batsmen Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis were dismissed inside the first 10 overs of the day. De Silva and Mendis, the team's last recognised batsmen, resumed on 205 for five, still needing 143 runs to win.

Maharaj made the first breakthrough when Mendis edged a low catch to Aiden Markram at slip. He made 46 in a 97-run sixth-wicket partnership with De Silva. Kagiso Rabada then had Sri Lankan captain De Silva caught behind for 50, exposing the Sri Lankan tail.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/bgt-he-should-take-a-leaf-out-of-sachin-tendulkars-2004-scg-knock-adam-gilchrist-suggests-virat-kohli-782626">BGT: 'He should take a leaf out of Sachin Tendulkar's 2004 SCG knock - Adam Gilchrist suggests Virat Kohli</a>

The last three wickets fell quickly, with Maharaj claiming two more scalps and Marco Jansen finishing the match with his first ball of the day when Lahiru Kumara was caught off a wild slog.

South Africa's chances of playing in the Test championship final at Lord's in June next year now lie in their own hands, with their two remaining fixtures being at home against Pakistan.

Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.&nbsp;

Keshav Maharaj took five wickets and helped South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 109 runs on the fifth day of the second Test at St George's Park on Monday. Left-arm spinner Maharaj picked up 5-76 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 238.

Keshav Maharaj took five wickets and helped South Africa beat Sri Lanka by 109 runs on the fifth day of the second Test at St George's Park on Monday. Left-arm spinner Maharaj picked up 5-76 as Sri Lanka were bowled out for 238. They lost their remaining five wickets for 33 runs on Monday. The win gave South Africa a 2-0 series win and took them to the top of the World Test championship table. Sri Lanka's hopes of an upset win were extinguished when overnight batsmen Dhananjaya de Silva and Kusal Mendis were dismissed inside the first 10 overs of the day. De Silva and Mendis, the team's last recognised batsmen, resumed on 205 for five, still needing 143 runs to win. Maharaj made the first breakthrough when Mendis edged a low catch to Aiden Markram at slip. He made 46 in a 97-run sixth-wicket partnership with De Silva. Kagiso Rabada then had Sri Lankan captain De Silva caught behind for 50, exposing the Sri Lankan tail. Also read: BGT: 'He should take a leaf out of Sachin Tendulkar's 2004 SCG knock - Adam Gilchrist suggests Virat Kohli The last three wickets fell quickly, with Maharaj claiming two more scalps and Marco Jansen finishing the match with his first ball of the day when Lahiru Kumara was caught off a wild slog. South Africa's chances of playing in the Test championship final at Lord's in June next year now lie in their own hands, with their two remaining fixtures being at home against Pakistan. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

SA vs SL, 2nd Test: Keshav Maharaj bowls South Africa to 109-run win, complete series whitewash

South Africa have been dealt a huge blow in the race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final after star pacer Lungi Ngidi was ruled out of the home season on Thursday (Nov 14). According to Cricket South Africa (CSA) statement, Ngidi has sustained a groin injury,&nbsp;which will see him miss the Test series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. South Africa is currently fifth with four matches to go in the WTC cycle.

<h2>Ngidi out of home season</h2>

"Proteas Men’s fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, as well as the all-format tour against Pakistan, due to a groin injury...He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and is expected to return to play in January," the South Africa Cricket Board’s statement said.

Ngidi has played in 19 Test matches, scalping 55 wickets during that period with three five-wicket hauls. He is one of the few players to play in all three formats for the side, having also played in 62 ODIs and 43 T20Is for South Africa. He will be a crucial member of the side for the Champions Trophy which will be staged in Pakistan, according to the current developments.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-rohit-and-dravid-wasted-10-years-of-my-sons-career-claims-sanju-samsons-father-776013">MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father</a>

<h2>South Africa’s position in WTC</h2>

Currently, the Proteas still have great interest in the race for the WTC final with the top two India and Australia set to collide in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With one team certain to drop points and South Africa to face Sri Lanka in the home series, Temba Bavuma and Co will retain an interest in reaching the WTC final in June 2025.

They currently have a win percentage of 54.17 from eight matches and have won four, drawn three and lost one. &nbsp;

South Africa have been dealt a huge blow in the race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final after star pacer Lungi Ngidi was ruled out of the home season on Thursday (Nov 14).

South Africa have been dealt a huge blow in the race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final after star pacer Lungi Ngidi was ruled out of the home season on Thursday (Nov 14). According to Cricket South Africa (CSA) statement, Ngidi has sustained a groin injury, which will see him miss the Test series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. South Africa is currently fifth with four matches to go in the WTC cycle. Ngidi out of home season "Proteas Men’s fast bowler Lungi Ngidi has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, as well as the all-format tour against Pakistan, due to a groin injury...He will now begin a rehabilitation programme and is expected to return to play in January," the South Africa Cricket Board’s statement said. Ngidi has played in 19 Test matches, scalping 55 wickets during that period with three five-wicket hauls. He is one of the few players to play in all three formats for the side, having also played in 62 ODIs and 43 T20Is for South Africa. He will be a crucial member of the side for the Champions Trophy which will be staged in Pakistan, according to the current developments. ALSO READ | MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit and Dravid wasted 10 years of my son's career, claims Sanju Samson's father South Africa’s position in WTC Currently, the Proteas still have great interest in the race for the WTC final with the top two India and Australia set to collide in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy. With one team certain to drop points and South Africa to face Sri Lanka in the home series, Temba Bavuma and Co will retain an interest in reaching the WTC final in June 2025. They currently have a win percentage of 54.17 from eight matches and have won four, drawn three and lost one.

South Africa dealt huge blow in race for WTC final, Lungi Ngidi ruled out of home Test season with injury

The race for the qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) final is going down to the wire as a host of teams prepare to battle for the biggest prize in red-ball cricket. While the India-Australia series will have a lot to ride on, the New Zealand-England series will also attract a lot of attention as a place in the final at Lord’s in 2025 is up for grabs. With big series and matches on the way, here are all the scenarios for the race to the WTC 2025 final.

<h2>WTC final place up for grabs</h2>

With the top two nations in the WTC standings earning a place to play in the final, it will be vital for the nations to finish atop. While Australia and India currently occupy the top two places, that won’t be the case at the end of their five-match series with them going head-to-head. This would mean, that at least one team will miss out as the losing team in the series and will acquire a poor win percentage. New Zealand, South Africa and Sri Lanka are therefore in the frame for the second spot in the WTC final.

<h2>1. India’s scenario</h2>

P 14 | W 8 | D 1 | L 5 | Pen -2 | Points 98 | PCT% 58.33

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Five v Australia (away)

Form guide:&nbsp;L L L W W

Having lost to New Zealand 0-3, India’s fate will be decided by the Border-Gavaskar Trophy which starts on Nov 22 in Perth. Despite the series defeat, Rohit Sharma’s men have their fate in their own hands and could reach the final by winning 4-0 or a better result Down Under. Any other result will see India’s fate lie out of their hands and will need a helping hand from other teams with certain equations to be met.

<h2>2. Australia’s scenario</h2>

P 12 | W 8 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen -10 | Points 90 | PCT% 62.50

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Five v India (home), two v Sri Lanka (away)

Form guide (most recent first):&nbsp;W W L W W

Five wins out of seven reaming matches would guarantee Pat Cummins and Co. participation in June's final. If Australia win four and lose three, they could miss out on the top two if New Zealand win 3-0 against England and South Africa win three of their four Tests against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, any Kiwi slip-up in this scenario (even a 2-0 win) would see the Aussies progress.

<h2>3. Sri Lanka</h2>

P 9 | W 5 | D 0 | L 4 | Pen 0 | Points 60 | PCT% 55.56

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Two v South Africa (away), two v Australia (home)

Form guide:&nbsp;W W W L L&nbsp;

Sri Lanka will definitely need some other results to go their way but the possibility of them making their first WTC Final is real. The key for the Lankans will be winning both Tests against Australia at home, which opens up several avenues for progression, especially if they can steal a win or a draw in South Africa.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/afg-vs-ban-rahmanullah-gurbaz-azmatullah-omarzai-propel-afghanistan-to-series-win-over-bangladesh-775377">Afg vs Ban: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai propel Afghanistan to series win over Bangladesh</a>

<h2>4. New Zealand</h2>

P 11 | W 6 | D 0 | L 5 | Pen 0 | Points 72 | PCT% 54.55

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Three v England (home)

Form guide:&nbsp;W W W L L&nbsp;

New Zealand stormed back into calculations with a stunning 3-0 victory over India away from home. A clean sweep of England, just like against the Indians, would guarantee the 2021 champions another WTC Final appearance.&nbsp; A&nbsp;2-1 win would also work for the Kiwis, but in all likelihood a drawn series or worse would end their campaign.

<h2>5. South Africa</h2>

P 8 | W 4 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen 0 | Points 52 | PCT% 54.17

Remaining Tests:&nbsp;Two v Sri Lanka (home), two v Pakistan (home)

Form guide:&nbsp;W W W D L

South Africa are in the enviable position of having all their remaining matches at home. Should they win all four (and even three could be enough), they will find themselves in their maiden WTC Final. It's a stunning turnaround for the Proteas, who as recently as February sent a second-choice side to New Zealand. Since then, South Africa knocked off West Indies 1-0 in August and crushed Bangladesh 2-0 in October.

The race for the qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) final is going down to the wire as a host of teams prepare to battle for the biggest prize in red-ball cricket.

The race for the qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) final is going down to the wire as a host of teams prepare to battle for the biggest prize in red-ball cricket. While the India-Australia series will have a lot to ride on, the New Zealand-England series will also attract a lot of attention as a place in the final at Lord’s in 2025 is up for grabs. With big series and matches on the way, here are all the scenarios for the race to the WTC 2025 final. WTC final place up for grabs With the top two nations in the WTC standings earning a place to play in the final, it will be vital for the nations to finish atop. While Australia and India currently occupy the top two places, that won’t be the case at the end of their five-match series with them going head-to-head. This would mean, that at least one team will miss out as the losing team in the series and will acquire a poor win percentage. New Zealand, South Africa and Sri Lanka are therefore in the frame for the second spot in the WTC final. 1. India’s scenario P 14 | W 8 | D 1 | L 5 | Pen -2 | Points 98 | PCT% 58.33 Remaining Tests: Five v Australia (away) Form guide: L L L W W Having lost to New Zealand 0-3, India’s fate will be decided by the Border-Gavaskar Trophy which starts on Nov 22 in Perth. Despite the series defeat, Rohit Sharma’s men have their fate in their own hands and could reach the final by winning 4-0 or a better result Down Under. Any other result will see India’s fate lie out of their hands and will need a helping hand from other teams with certain equations to be met. 2. Australia’s scenario P 12 | W 8 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen -10 | Points 90 | PCT% 62.50 Remaining Tests: Five v India (home), two v Sri Lanka (away) Form guide (most recent first): W W L W W Five wins out of seven reaming matches would guarantee Pat Cummins and Co. participation in June's final. If Australia win four and lose three, they could miss out on the top two if New Zealand win 3-0 against England and South Africa win three of their four Tests against Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, any Kiwi slip-up in this scenario (even a 2-0 win) would see the Aussies progress. 3. Sri Lanka P 9 | W 5 | D 0 | L 4 | Pen 0 | Points 60 | PCT% 55.56 Remaining Tests: Two v South Africa (away), two v Australia (home) Form guide: W W W L L Sri Lanka will definitely need some other results to go their way but the possibility of them making their first WTC Final is real. The key for the Lankans will be winning both Tests against Australia at home, which opens up several avenues for progression, especially if they can steal a win or a draw in South Africa. ALSO READ | Afg vs Ban: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Azmatullah Omarzai propel Afghanistan to series win over Bangladesh 4. New Zealand P 11 | W 6 | D 0 | L 5 | Pen 0 | Points 72 | PCT% 54.55 Remaining Tests: Three v England (home) Form guide: W W W L L New Zealand stormed back into calculations with a stunning 3-0 victory over India away from home. A clean sweep of England, just like against the Indians, would guarantee the 2021 champions another WTC Final appearance. A 2-1 win would also work for the Kiwis, but in all likelihood a drawn series or worse would end their campaign. 5. South Africa P 8 | W 4 | D 1 | L 3 | Pen 0 | Points 52 | PCT% 54.17 Remaining Tests: Two v Sri Lanka (home), two v Pakistan (home) Form guide: W W W D L South Africa are in the enviable position of having all their remaining matches at home. Should they win all four (and even three could be enough), they will find themselves in their maiden WTC Final. It's a stunning turnaround for the Proteas, who as recently as February sent a second-choice side to New Zealand. Since then, South Africa knocked off West Indies 1-0 in August and crushed Bangladesh 2-0 in October.

Explained: Scenarios for all teams to qualify for the 2025 World Test Championship final

wtc-final

Wtc Final, News on Wtc Final, stories on Wtc Final, articles on Wtc Final, Wtc Final stories at Wion, Wtc Final news, Wtc Final latest news

wtc final

ICC confirms The Oval to host 2027 World Test Championship Final. Check dates, team standings inside

IND vs SA: Gill makes bold statement, says 'I'm going to win toss in WTC final'

BCCI snubbed as ICC grants England hosting rights of next three WTC finals

Shastri suggests two stadiums that can draw more crowd than Lord's for WTC Final

SA vs AUS, WTC 2025 Final: Temba Bavuma rejoices South Africa's historic triumph

Ashwell Prince opens up on Temba Bavuma's injury, says 'we had to make big call'

WTC 2025 Final: Will rain play spoilsport on Day 4 as SA inch closer to win?

WTC Final, Day 3: Markram, Bavuma take South Africa near to glory vs Australia

Luckiest player in WTC Final? Aussie pacer has won all finals in career

WTC Final, Day 2: Australia slightly ahead after another 14-wicket day

WTC Final: Labuschagne takes screamer at covers to dismiss Bavuma - WATCH

SA batter given not out despite 'obstructs the field'? Here's what the rule says

Highest partnerships in WTC history - No Indian pair in top five

WTC Final 2025: Rabada unlocks unbelievable rare feat at Lord's, joins West Indies legend

WTC Final 2025, SA vs AUS Day 1: Australia finish on top in title defence despite Rabada's five-for

Eight WTC final-bound South Africa players to miss IPL playoffs - Report

WTC Final: Pat Cummins-led Australia name 15-man squad, Cameron Green returns after back injury

SL vs AUS, Galle Test: Sri Lanka crash to worst defeat as Australia build for WTC final

WTC 2025 Final: Kagiso Rabada hungry for success against Australia, 'We know how to beat them'

South Africa beat Pakistan in second Test to complete series whitewash

Coach Conrad unapologetic about South Africa's easy route to WTC Final

Explained - How India can reach the WTC Final after losing MCG Test

WTC Final 2025: India's qualification chances and scenarios | Read

WTC 2025: South Africa enter final with thrilling win over Pakistan

WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test

WTC Standings: Gabba draw puts India in 'must-win' territory ahead of Boxing Day Test