South Africa stand just 69 runs away from scripting history in Test cricket, as they edge closer to winning their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) title. After an intense battle over the first three days of play at Lord’s, former captain and recently-inducted ICC Hall of Famer Graeme Smith has praised the Proteas’ resilience and fighting spirit as they march towards ending their 27-year ICC trophy drought.
A Hard-Fought Comeback
The WTC Final has been a rollercoaster, with 28 wickets falling in just two days, thanks to excellent bowling spells from both sides. However, it was South Africa’s bowlers who made the crucial breakthrough, finishing Australia’s innings at a stage many considered the easiest to bat.
With the game hanging in the balance, it was the calm determination of Aiden Markram (102 not out)* and captain Temba Bavuma (65 not out)* that swung the match firmly in the Proteas’ favor. Their unbeaten 143-run partnership has not only frustrated Australia’s bowlers but also brought South Africa within touching distance of glory.
Graeme Smith: ‘An Outstanding Performance’
Speaking on ICC’s Digital Daily, Smith was all praise for the South African team, particularly highlighting their composure under pressure.
“We’ve seen such ups and downs in this Test match,” Smith said. “South Africa fought back brilliantly after trailing by 75 runs in the first innings. But what stood out was Aiden Markram’s incredible hundred under immense pressure.”
Smith admitted that after witnessing the tricky conditions in the first two days, few would have expected such a dominant batting display from the Proteas on Day 3.
“It’s an occasion like this to see him (Markram) own it and perform. Coming off a duck in the first innings, he stood tall when it mattered the most.”
Smith also commended Bavuma’s courage, battling not just the Australian bowlers but also a hamstring injury that flared up early in his innings.
“Let’s not underestimate Bavuma’s contribution. Battling injury, putting his country first, and forming that incredible partnership with Markram—it speaks volumes about his leadership.”
Australian Bowlers Left Clueless
Smith pointed out that while Australia’s attack, led by Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon, did everything in their arsenal, some defensive tactics may have cost them dearly.
“At times, Cummins set defensive fields when they should’ve been attacking, especially when South Africa still needed 150. Perhaps Lyon could’ve bowled into the rough a bit more, but honestly, you can’t take credit away from Markram and Bavuma.”
A Defining Moment for South African Cricket
Having served as Director of Cricket at Cricket South Africa (CSA) from 2019 to 2022, Smith has seen firsthand the rebuilding of South African cricket. From skeptics doubting their place in the Final to now almost clinching the title, the journey has been remarkable.
“Everyone wrote South Africa off before this game, questioning why they were even in the Final. Now, they are just one good session away from lifting that mace.”
Smith believes this victory—if sealed—could reignite cricket’s popularity in South Africa, inspiring young cricketers and fans back home.
“Seeing Temba Bavuma lift the mace at Lord’s—what a moment that would be for the people of South Africa.”
The Final Hurdle Awaits
As Day 4 approaches, South Africa will need just 69 more runs to etch their names into history books. With Markram in sublime touch and Bavuma’s gritty leadership, the Proteas will be eyeing to complete their mission and bring home their first major ICC trophy since 1998.
For now, fans across the cricketing world—and especially in South Africa—will be holding their breath, hoping for a fairytale ending at the Home of Cricket.
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