Bavuma Leads South Africa to WTC Final 2025 Against Australia at Lord's

A 15-member squad of stars led by veteran captain Temba Bavuma has been announced for South Africa's first-ever ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final, set to take place in June against Australia at the iconic Lord's stadium.

The news was confirmed on the ICC website, and Bavuma has been entrusted with leading his team into this prestigious encounter. Furthering the excitement is the return of speedster Lungi Ngidi, who had missed the home summer assignments due to a groin injury.

Ngidi, who has now fully recovered, will join his fellow fast-bowling unit spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada and Dane Paterson. The batting lineup boasts a mix of experienced players like Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, and Aiden Markram in the top order, while rising stars Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham will provide solidity in the middle overs alongside Bavuma.

In the lower order, Kyle Verreynne will be a crucial presence behind the stumps and with his bat. All-rounders Wiaam Mulder and Marco Jansen can contribute with both bat and ball. Senuran Muthusamy, meanwhile, will anchor the team's spin resources, backed up by Keshav Maharaj.

One notable omission is young Kwena Maphaka, who has been replaced by the return of Ngidi to the squad. Similarly, top-order batter Matthew Breetzke also misses out on a spot in the final squad.

South Africa's impressive League Stage performances have set them up for this momentous occasion. With a points percentage of 69.44, they topped their group and made it to their first-ever WTC final with an unbeaten record. The team dominated at home, securing series wins against both Pakistan and Sri Lanka, while also drawing against India.

Their away form was equally compelling, with victories over the West Indies and Bangladesh. Although they faltered slightly in New Zealand due to absent key players, South Africa's impressive tally of eight wins from 12 matches demonstrates their strength as a unit.

With many eyes on them, South Africa are now geared up for what promises to be an enthralling WTC final against Australia at Lord's. Can the Proteas emerge victorious and make history? The stage is set for a showstopper!