200+ Runs Target For SA In WTC Final; Check Test Record At Lord's For Chasing Team

Marco Jansen Sad - (Source : AP)

The ongoing WTC final between South Africa and Australia at the Lord's has reached an interesting stage, as events pointing towards a possible result as early on day 3. Notably, after the end of play on day 2, Australia were 144/8 with a lead of 218 runs. 

The Temba Bavuma-led side have started day 3 on a high with a wicket early on and would look to wrap this up quickly as the Proteas are already tasked with chasing a target in excess of 200 runs. 

While a target below 300 seem achievable, the batters are having a hard time at the Lord's and even the Proteas know it. The Temba Bavuma-led side tumbled for just 138 runs in the first innings. The fans are concerned as the record of teams chasing 200+ totals at Lord's isn't that great.

Let's look at the stats for teams chasing 200+ total at Lord's

South Africa fans might want to turn their attention away as teams have chased down 200+ total on just four occasions out of 23. Moreover, 19 times, the teams have failed to chase down a total above 200 on the board at Lord's

Highest Total Chased In Lord's

At the time of writing this article, Australia tumbled for 207, taking a 281-runs lead. For South Africa to win the title, they need to chase down the joint second-highest total at Lord's. Notably, England's  England's 282-3 to beat New Zealand in 2004 is the second-highest successful run-chase at Lord's.

West Indies hold the record for the highest successful run-chase at Lord's when the Windies chased down 344 runs against England in 1984. 

What Makes Batting Difficult At Lord's?

There are several factors why batting is difficult at Lord's and why is it called the 'Home of Cricket'

1. Slope Factor - Notably, there is a slope in the pitch at Lord's. Walking from the pavilion end to the Nursery end, you experience a dip of about 2.5 metres, which makes batting difficult from one end.

Several batters have pointed out the slope in the past, but it certainly does pose a challenge to the players, compared to flat pitches and even playing surface across both ends, which is usually the case for other grounds.

2. Overcast Conditions - The weather across Lord's is overcast and with clouds looming over the ground, it makes it easier for the bowlers to swing the ball and challenge the batters. Thus, weather conditions are another reason why batting isn't easy at the Mecca of Cricket.

Talking about the ongoing match, South Africa are playing their first-ever ICC final in 27 years and with the pressure mounting on the players to end the trophy drought, coupled with the tough challenges at Lord's, it is difficult to chase 200+ targets, which is why the fans are worried.

---

ALSO READ

Why Are Players Wearing Black Armbands In South Africa vs Australia WTC Final?

---