The cricketing world is buzzing as the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 kicks off today, June 11, 2025, at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. It’s a massive showdown between defending champions Australia and first-time finalists South Africa, and Indian fans are glued to their screens for this epic Test cricket battle. Known as the “Home of Cricket,” Lord’s is hosting its first-ever WTC Final, and the stage is set for five days of heart-pounding action. Let’s dive into what makes this clash so special, why it matters, and what Indian fans can expect!
A Clash of Titans at Lord’s
Imagine two heavyweight boxers stepping into the ring—that’s what Australia vs. South Africa feels like in this WTC Final. Australia, led by the cool-headed Pat Cummins, are the reigning champs after thrashing India by 209 runs in the 2023 final at The Oval. They’re hungry to become the first team to win the WTC title twice, cementing their legacy as Test cricket’s top dogs. Their pace attack—Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Cummins himself—is like a pack of lions ready to pounce, while Nathan Lyon’s spin adds a sneaky twist.
On the other side, South Africa, captained by the gritty Temba Bavuma, are the underdogs with a point to prove. This is their first WTC Final, and they’re chasing their first major ICC trophy since 1998. The Proteas have been labeled “chokers” in big moments, but their recent form—winning seven of their last eight Tests—shows they’re no pushovers. With Kagiso Rabada’s fiery pace and Aiden Markram’s solid batting, they’re ready to upset the Aussies and make history.
For Indian fans, this final stings a bit. India made it to the last two WTC finals (2021 and 2023) but lost both—to New Zealand and Australia. This time, despite finishing third in the WTC points table, India missed out, leaving fans to watch as neutral supporters. But the love for Test cricket in India runs deep, and this match promises drama, skill, and nail-biting moments.
Why Lord’s Matters
Lord’s is like the Taj Mahal of cricket—steeped in history and prestige. It’s where legends are made, and for Indian fans, it brings back memories of Kapil Dev’s 1983 World Cup triumph. This is the first time Lord’s is hosting a WTC Final, making it a landmark event. The pitch at Lord’s is known to favor fast bowlers early on, especially with the Dukes ball, which swings like a pendulum in England’s cloudy weather. But as the match progresses, batsmen can settle in if they survive the initial storm.
The weather in London could play spoilsport, though. Forecasts suggest rain, especially on Day 2, which might interrupt play. Thankfully, there’s a reserve day on June 16 to ensure a result, unless the match is completely washed out. If it ends in a draw or tie, both teams will share the WTC Mace—a shiny, oversized trophy that symbolizes Test supremacy.
The Teams: Who’s Playing?
Both teams announced their playing XI a day early, a rare move that shows their confidence. Australia’s lineup is a mix of experience and firepower. Marnus Labuschagne has been pushed up to open the batting, a bold call, while Cameron Green’s return strengthens their middle order. Steve Smith, one of the world’s best Test batsmen, will be key, and all-rounder Beau Webster could be a surprise package if Hazlewood’s fitness falters.
Australia Playing XI: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Travis Head, Steve Smith, Cameron Green, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon.
South Africa, meanwhile, have gone for a balanced attack. Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram will anchor the batting, while David Bedingham, who smashed 645 runs in this WTC cycle, is their in-form star. Kagiso Rabada, ranked No. 2 in Test bowling, will lead the pace charge alongside Lungi Ngidi and Wiaan Mulder, with Keshav Maharaj’s spin offering variety.
South Africa Playing XI: Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
Key Battles to Watch
Indian fans love a good cricket duel, and this final is packed with them. Here are three matchups that could decide the game:
- Kagiso Rabada vs. Steve Smith: Rabada’s express pace and late swing will test Smith’s rock-solid technique. If Rabada gets Smith early, South Africa could rattle Australia’s middle order.
- Pat Cummins vs. Temba Bavuma: As captains, both lead by example. Cummins’ relentless bowling will target Bavuma, South Africa’s backbone, while Bavuma’s calm batting could frustrate Australia.
- Nathan Lyon vs. Aiden Markram: Lyon’s spin will be crucial on Days 4 and 5 if the pitch wears. Markram, South Africa’s opener, must counter Lyon to give his team a strong start.
What’s at Stake?
The WTC Final isn’t just about bragging rights—it’s a massive deal. The winners will pocket a whopping $3.6 million (around ₹30 crore), the biggest prize in Test cricket, while the runners-up get $2.1 million. For Australia, it’s a chance to solidify their dominance across formats, having won the 2023 ODI World Cup and WTC. For South Africa, it’s about ending a 25-year ICC trophy drought and shedding the “chokers” tag that’s haunted them since their 1999 World Cup semi-final loss to Australia.
For Indian fans, the absence of India adds a layer of curiosity. Many expected India to be here, as Pat Cummins himself admitted, saying, “You expect India to be around.” But South Africa’s rise has surprised some, with critics like Michael Vaughan claiming they had an “easy” path by not facing Australia or England. Cummins, however, dismissed this, saying, “Teams can only beat who they play.” Indian fans might root for South Africa as underdogs or admire Australia’s ruthless winning machine—it’s a tough choice!
How Indian Fans Can Watch
The match starts at 3:00 PM IST, perfect for afternoon viewing in India. You can catch the live action on Star Sports Network (Star Sports 1 SD & HD, Star Sports 1 Hindi SD & HD) or stream it on Disney+ Hotstar (JioHotstar app and website). Social media is already buzzing, with the ICC’s cinematic promo featuring Rabada, Starc, and Markram going viral on Indian Twitter. Fans are calling it a “masterclass,” and posts on X show excitement for the “Bavuma army vs. Cummins’ boys.”
Why Indian Fans Should Care
Even without India in the final, this match is a treat for Test cricket lovers. The WTC has given Test matches context, making every series count, and Indian fans have embraced this format. South Africa’s journey—topping the points table with 69.44% despite not playing Australia or England—mirrors India’s own underdog stories. Australia’s dominance, meanwhile, reminds fans of their fierce rivalry with India, especially after the 2023 final loss.
The match also highlights Test cricket’s enduring charm. In an era of T20 leagues like the IPL, the WTC Final proves that five-day cricket still captivates. For young Indian fans, watching Rabada’s fiery spells or Smith’s masterclass batting is a lesson in skill and patience. Plus, with India earning ₹12.32 crore for finishing third in the WTC standings, there’s pride in knowing Indian cricket remains a powerhouse.
What to Expect
This final could go down to the wire. Australia’s experience in big finals makes them favorites, but South Africa’s hunger and bowling strength could spring a surprise. The Lord’s pitch will test both teams’ adaptability, and rain might add drama. If South Africa’s batsmen handle Australia’s pace trio, they could post a competitive total. If Australia’s top order clicks, their bowlers might run through South Africa.
Indian fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, even as neutrals. Will South Africa finally break their ICC jinx? Or will Australia’s golden era continue? One thing’s for sure: Lord’s will witness a battle for the ages.
Last Updated on: Wednesday, June 11, 2025 11:12 am by Naga Surya Teja Ganpisetty | Published by: Naga Surya Teja Ganpisetty on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 11:11 am | News Categories: Sports
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