The ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 at Lord's is poised for a thrilling climax, with South Africa firmly in the driver's seat after a heroic display on Day 3. Chasing a challenging 282 for victory against defending champions Australia, the Proteas finished the day at 213/2, needing just 69 more runs with eight wickets in hand.
The day belonged to Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma. Markram, recovering from a first-innings duck, played a magnificent, unbeaten century (102*), showcasing immense composure and skill. Skipper Bavuma provided crucial support, battling through a hamstring injury to remain 65* not out. Their unbroken 143-run partnership for the third wicket has wrestled control from Australia, who had hoped their final-wicket stand of 58 between Mitchell Starc (58*) and Josh Hazlewood (17) would set an insurmountable target.
Earlier in the match, Kagiso Rabada's five-wicket haul in the first innings saw Australia bowled out for 212. Pat Cummins responded with a devastating 6/28 to limit South Africa to 138. Australia then extended their lead, but Rabada's four wickets in the second innings kept the target manageable.
Now, all eyes turn to Day 4. South Africa, playing in their first WTC Final, are on the cusp of a historic triumph, their first major ICC title in over two decades. Australia, with their renowned champion pedigree, will need a miraculous bowling performance to defend their title. The "Home of Cricket" is set for a dramatic finish!
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