Aiden Markram’s Century Powers South Africa to Maiden WTC Title
In a historic moment at Lord’s Cricket Ground, South Africa lifted their first ICC title in 27 years by defeating Australia by five wickets in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025. Star batter Aiden Markram delivered a stunning century in the final innings, which earned him widespread praise—including high acclaim from legendary former Australian captain Ricky Ponting.
Ponting Rates Markram’s Knock Among the Best in ICC Finals
Speaking to ICC Digital, Ponting praised Markram’s match-winning 136, calling it one of the finest innings ever played in an ICC final.
“This knock deserves to be remembered alongside the greats—like Travis Head’s performances in the 2023 ODI and WTC Finals,” Ponting said.
He added that considering South Africa’s struggles in Test cricket over the past few years, Markram’s performance was nothing short of remarkable.
Ponting: ‘I couldn’t believe Markram wasn’t in the squad during 2022 tour’
Ponting also reflected on Markram’s career trajectory, saying he was shocked when Markram wasn’t picked during South Africa’s 2022 tour of Australia.
“To see him now play what could be the finest innings of his career in a high-stakes final is incredible. It’s a proud moment for him and a massive achievement for South African cricket,” he added.
How the WTC Final 2025 Unfolded
Australia Falter Despite Strong Fight
Australia won the toss and opted to bat. However, South Africa’s pace duo—Kagiso Rabada (5/51) and Marco Jansen (3/49)—tore through the top order, reducing them to 67/4. Counter-attacking knocks from Steve Smith (66) and Beau Webster (72) helped the Aussies reach 212 all out.
Cummins’ Six-Fer Gives Australia a Lead
South Africa stumbled to 138 all out in their first innings despite a gritty partnership between Temba Bavuma (36) and David Bedingham (45). Pat Cummins led the attack with a brilliant 6/28, giving Australia a 74-run lead.
Australia Collapse Again Before Proteas Fightback
In the second innings, Australia collapsed to 73/7, but late resistance from Mitchell Starc (58)* and Alex Carey (46) helped them post 207, setting a target of 281 runs for South Africa.
Markram and Bavuma Seal the Deal for South Africa
South Africa’s chase started shakily, but Markram and Bavuma built an incredible 147-run partnership, with Markram scoring 136 off 207 balls and Bavuma contributing 66 off 134 balls. Despite Starc’s 3/63, the Proteas reached the target comfortably, with Kyle Verreynne hitting the winning runs.
South Africa’s WTC Journey Ends in Glory
This victory marks South Africa’s first ICC title since 1998 and their eighth straight Test win, showcasing the revival under coach Shukri Conrad and captain Temba Bavuma.
“This is what legends are made of,” said Ponting. “Aiden Markram stood tall when it mattered most.”
