South African Test squad (Source:@ICC/X.com)
South African captain Temba Bavuma has announced the playing XI for the all-important WTC final during the press conference, a day before the game. The Proteas have decided to go with Lungi Ngidi as their third pacer for the game which means the likes of Corbin Bosch and Dane Paterson have missed out.
Corbin Bosch and Dane Paterson both did well in the home series before the WTC final, but the South African management has opted for the experience of Lungi Ngidi against the mighty Aussies.
South Africa Likely To Go With Wiaan Mulder Or Tristan Stubbs At Number 3
Ngidi will partner with Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen while Wiaan Mulder can play the role of the fourth seamer. Keshav Maharaj is the lone spinner and Markram, Stubbs can roll their arms if needed. On the batting front, Ryan Rickelton has got the nod over Tony de Zorzi, and will open with Aiden Markram. Rickelton has been preferred due to his consistent performances at the international level in recent times and also scored a double century in his last Test match against Pakistan.
The middle order consists of familiar names like Tristan Stubbs and captain Temba Bavuma. Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen are the two all-rounders in the XI and the former might be given the important number 3 position. There is also the option of Tristan Stubbs, who has done well at that position in recent times.
This is the first WTC final for South Africa while their opponents, Australia are the winners of the last cycle. Thus, the Proteas would have to be on top of their game and their inexperienced batting line-up will be in focus during the finale at the Lord's as they chase their first ICC title in 27 years.
South Africa playing XI For WTC Final vs Australia
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (C), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (WK), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
 "Aashay Chopade")
