The grand final of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 will see Australia and South Africa face off at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. Cricket fans across the world are eagerly waiting for this historic clash.
Australia enters the final with the tag of current World Test and ODI Champions, while South Africa comes with high hopes and a fearless attitude. It’s a battle between experience and hunger, between legacy and new ambition.
Australia Eyeing Back-to-Back Titles
Australia has already proved its dominance in recent years. With a strong Test squad, they hold both the ODI World Cup and World Test Championship titles. Under Pat Cummins’ captaincy, the team has delivered consistently, showing strength in both batting and bowling departments.
The team includes top-class players like:
- David Warner – Experienced opener and big-match player
- Steve Smith – Dependable and calm in pressure situations
- Marnus Labuschagne – Technically sound and consistent
- Pat Cummins – Fast bowler and sharp captain
- Josh Hazlewood – Seam bowler with tight control
Australia’s balance of aggressive stroke-makers and disciplined bowlers makes them tough to beat in any condition.
South Africa’s Big Chance to Create History
This is South Africa’s first appearance in a WTC final, and the team has shown great form to reach this stage. They’ve won seven Test matches in a row, and their captain, Temba Bavuma, has led from the front.
Unlike Australia, South Africa does not carry the burden of expectations. This gives them a mental edge, as they can go all out without fear.
Key players to watch:
- Temba Bavuma – Calm leader with strong recent form
- Kagiso Rabada – Lead pace bowler and game-changer
- Anrich Nortje – Express speed and bounce
- Dean Elgar – Veteran with solid technique
- Keshav Maharaj – A Spinner who can build pressure
The team’s pace battery has the potential to trouble any top order, even one as solid as Australia’s.
Big Names Pick Their Favourites
Before the match, many former international cricketers shared their views on who would win the WTC final. Most believe Australia has a better chance due to their experience and team strength. But they also warned against taking South Africa lightly.
Michael Clarke (Former Australia Captain):
“Australia goes in as the favourite. The experience and bowling power give them an edge. But South Africa deserves respect for reaching the final.”
Mark Boucher (Former South Africa Wicketkeeper):
“Australia looks stronger, but South Africa should not back off. They’ve shown good fight and should play with confidence.”
Aaron Finch (Former Australia Captain):
“I believe Australia remains the favourite. Their depth and recent form in big matches make them very dangerous.”
Sean Pollock (Former South Africa Captain):
“South Africa may not be favourites, but the Dukes ball in England conditions could make things interesting. If they bowl well, anything can happen.”
Brad Haddin (Former Australia Wicketkeeper):
“Australia will win. Cummins and Hazlewood are in rhythm. Their control with the new ball can shape the match early.”
Captain vs Captain: Cummins vs Bavuma
The captaincy battle will be crucial. Pat Cummins, one of the best fast bowlers in the world, has led Australia with calmness and authority. He has won every ICC final he’s played so far.
On the other side, Temba Bavuma is a smart leader who understands the strengths of his players. Under his captaincy, South Africa has not lost a single Test match recently.
Both leaders have very different styles—Cummins leads with tactical bowling strength, while Bavuma relies on disciplined team execution.
What Makes This WTC Final Special
- Lord’s Ground adds a historic touch
- Dukes Ball will help seam and swing bowlers
- First WTC final between these two teams
- Both teams in excellent form
- No clear weakness in either squad
The pitch at Lord’s often helps fast bowlers early but becomes better for batting later. So, toss and weather conditions will play a key role.
Final Match Outlook: What to Expect
Expect a tough five-day battle with twists and turns. Australia will look to attack early with pace, while South Africa will focus on patient batting and tight bowling. The match will test every player’s skill, fitness, and mental strength.
Even though Australia looks stronger on paper, cricket does not always follow predictions. South Africa has enough firepower to cause an upset if their top order clicks and bowlers strike early.
Fans around the world are hoping for a classic Test final that will keep everyone glued to the screen till the last session.
