SOUTH AFRICA ON VERGE OFHistoric World Test Championship Title

Cape Town, South Africa - June 16, 2023: The Proteas edged closer to clinching the ICC World Test Championship mace riding on sublime form from opener Aiden Markram and gritty half-century from captain Temba Bavuma.

At the close of play on Day 3 of The Ultimate Test at Lord's, South Africa reached 213/2 in their second innings, requiring a further 69 runs to dethrone Australia and claim their first-ever World Test Championship title.

Markram held his nerve, scoring an unbeaten 102, while Bavuma chipped in with 65*. Their impressive third-wicket stand of 143 runs proved pivotal in steadying the South African innings after early setbacks.

The Proteas suffered two losses to Mitchell Starc - Ryan Rickelton for 6 and Wiaan Mulder for 27 - before Bavuma joined Markram. The Aussie star followed up a fine morning session with another valuable wicket, but Bavuma's solidity at the crease made it difficult for Australia to break their partnership.

Despite the early loss of Mulder, Bavuma provided crucial support to Markram, displaying remarkable composure in a trying day that also saw a heated drama unfold as Steve Smith - Australia's veteran batter - was taken off the field after suffering a compound dislocation of his right little finger while attempting a difficult catch at slip.

Australia captain Pat Cummins put pressure on South Africa with six different bowlers employed to snap the 143-run partnership between Markram and Bavuma, but their efforts ultimately proved futile as the Proteas duo remained resolute, driving their team towards a significant victory and history-rich triumph.

Earlier in the day, Australia lost three wickets for only 59 runs against South Africa's bowling attack. Mitchell Starc took his innings to 58* alongside Josh Hazlewood to help bring Australia close to 300-run lead over a depleted Proteas batting line.

Brief Score:

Australia: 212 & 207 in 65 overs ( Mitchell Starc 58,  Alex Carey 43; Kagiso Rabada 4/59, Lungi Ngidi 3/38) South Africa: 138 & 213/2 in 56 overs ( Aiden Markram 102, Temba Bavuma 65*, Wiaan Mulder 27; Mitchell Starc 2/53)