Who will win SA vs AUS WTC final [Source: @StatsofARY/x.com]
South Africa is set to take on Australia in the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final starting Wednesday, June 11 at Lord’s in London. The exciting clash is a battle between two Test powerhouses: one eyeing its first ICC crown in decades, the other aiming to create history as the first team to win two WTC titles.
South Africa
This WTC Final marks a massive moment in South Africa’s Test journey. After finishing fifth in the inaugural edition and third in the 2021–23 cycle, the Proteas have finally made it to the summit clash. The stakes couldn’t be higher as South Africa haven’t won an ICC trophy since the 1998 Champions Trophy and this match offers them a golden chance to break that jinx.
Australia
Australia enter the final as reigning champions and tournament favourites. Led by Pat Cummins, the Aussies defeated India at The Oval in 2023 to lift the mace and are now hunting back-to-back titles. With a battle-tested top order and a bowling attack that thrives in English conditions, the Aussies look well-rounded and ruthless.
SA vs AUS Head-To-Head Records In Tests
Categories
South Africa
Australia
Matches Played
101
101
Matches Won
26
54
Matches Lost
54
26
Matches Drawn
21
21
How Will The Lord’s Pitch Behave?
The Lord’s surface often plays true to its heritage as it offers assistance to all disciplines. Early on, seamers are likely to enjoy swing and carry, especially under cloudy skies. However, as the game progresses, batting becomes easier and spin could come into play on a dry surface. Historically, teams batting first have had an upper hand, winning 53 out of 147 Tests at Lord’s, while sides bowling first have won 43. Expect a fair contest between bat and ball, especially with world-class quicks on both sides.
South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma has proven himself against the very best, including Australia. In 15 innings against the Aussies, he has amassed 483 runs at an average of 40.25. With a calm head and responsible batting style, Bavuma’s leadership and runs will be critical if the Proteas are to mount a serious challenge at Lord’s.
Kagiso Rabada
Kagiso Rabada is the undisputed leader of South Africa’s pace attack and has a stellar record against Australia with 49 wickets in 18 innings at an average of 23.08. His ability to bowl with venom and consistency makes him a constant threat. At Lord’s, Rabada has delivered standout performances, bagging 13 wickets in just two matches, including a memorable five-wicket haul in his last outing at the iconic venue.
Marco Jansen
The tall left-arm quick adds variety to South Africa’s attack with his ability to extract steep bounce and swing. In his only Test appearance at Lord’s, Jansen made an all-round impact as he snagged 4 wickets and scored 48 important runs. His ability to chip in with the bat and pick up wickets gives South Africa much-needed balance.
Australia
Steve Smith
A modern-day Test great, Steve Smith thrives on big occasions and has consistently haunted South Africa. With 854 runs in 21 innings at an average of 44.94 against the Proteas, Smith’s ability to grind bowling attacks into the ground is well documented. His record at Lord’s is exceptional too with 525 runs at an average of 58.33 in 5 Tests, including two centuries and two fifties.
Usman Khawaja
A key batter in the Australian top-order, Usman Khawaja brings calmness and experience to the crease. He has notched 765 runs in 20 innings against South Africa at an average of 40.26. In English conditions where technique and temperament are key, Khawaja’s ability to weather the new ball and provide stability will be critical to Australia’s chances.
Mitchell Starc
Mitchell Starc’s pace, late swing and wicket-taking ability make him a potent weapon in any conditions. Against South Africa, he has enjoyed success galore with 42 wickets in 17 innings. His ability to reverse the old ball and attack the stumps gives Australia a cutting edge, especially in England where the ball often moves throughout the day.
Today’s Match Prediction: SA vs AUS WTC Final
Predicted Top Performers
South Africa: Temba Bavuma, Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen Australia: Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja, Mitchell Starc
SA vs AUS WTC Final: Predicted Score
Predicted first innings score: 270-300 Predicted second innings score: 220-250 Predicted third innings score: 200-230 Predicted fourth innings score:170-200
Predicted Result: Considering the conditions and track record, the team batting first will likely have an edge in the match.