South Africa Win ICC World Test Champions After 27-Year Wait
South Africa Win ICC after 27-year drought in stunning fashion by defeating Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 14. The five-wicket victory was not only a monumental moment for the Proteas but also a shining chapter in Temba Bavuma’s growing legacy as captain. While Bavuma’s individual stats may not reflect dominance, his leadership has sparked a remarkable revival in South Africa’s Test cricket fortunes.
Bavuma’s Captaincy: Calm, Strategic, and Impactful
Since taking over the Test captaincy in early 2023, Temba Bavuma has transformed South Africa into a red-ball powerhouse. Under his stewardship, the team has won 9 of their 10 Tests, drawing the other—an exceptional run culminating in lifting the prestigious World Test Championship title. His composed leadership has provided clarity and confidence to a team long searching for consistency on the big stage.
Match- South Africa Win ICC Winning Grit at Lord’s
In the final against defending champions Australia, South Africa faced a stiff target of 282 runs. Bavuma played a crucial role, contributing 36 runs in the first innings before returning to the crease in the decisive fourth innings despite suffering a hamstring injury. Displaying determination under pressure, he scored a gritty 66 off 134 deliveries, anchoring a crucial 147-run partnership with Aiden Markram.
That stand turned the tide of the match. Markram’s scintillating 136 off 207 balls won him the Player of the Match award, but he was quick to credit his captain’s courage. Despite struggling physically, Bavuma refused to leave the field, understanding the significance of his presence. His resilience kept South Africa’s chase on track and inspired his teammates.
After the win, Aiden Markram praised Bavuma’s fighting spirit, calling it “an innings people will remember.” He highlighted Bavuma’s mental toughness and ability to stay focused, even while managing injury concerns. “He wasn’t going anywhere,” Markram said. “He’s led us brilliantly for years, and this knock showed exactly why he’s the heart of this team.”
A Fitting End to a Long Wait
Bavuma’s leadership has not only resulted in team success but has also elevated his personal performance. Since becoming captain, he has scored over 900 runs at an average exceeding 57—his best form in years. More than numbers, it’s his poise under pressure and ability to inspire that now defines him.
With this South Africa Win ICC World Test Championship title, South Africa joins New Zealand and Australia as champions of the tournament’s first three cycles. More importantly, they close the chapter on a decades-long search for global glory, with Temba Bavuma now etched in history as one of South Africa’s most successful Test captains.
