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LONDON: Australia nosed ahead of South Africa despite suffering a dramatic collapse on another 14-wicket day in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final here at Lord’s Cricket Ground on Thursday.
Australia concluded day two of their second innings with a score of 144 for 8, leading by 218 runs. Nathan Lyon (1) and Mitchell Starc (16) remained not out at the end of the day’s play.
After the tea break, South Africa’s fast bowlers took charge, dismantling the Australian batting lineup and claiming five wickets in quick succession.
Steve Smith (13) and the struggling Marnus Labuschagne (22) were dismissed, leaving Australia at 48 for 4, although their lead had already surpassed the 100-run mark.
Travis Head (9) and first innings top scorer Beau Webster (9) were both removed in consecutive overs, bringing skipper Pat Cummins to the crease.
Unfortunately, he fell shortly after, contributing just six runs to the total. This sudden collapse left the defending champions in a precarious position at 73 for 7.
However, Mitchell Starc and Alex Carey provided much-needed stability, forming a 61-run partnership that helped take Australia’s lead past the 200-run mark.
Carey played a counter-attacking innings, scoring 43 runs before being trapped LBW.
Starc ended the day unbeaten, partnering with Nathan Lyon as night fell on the second day of the WTC Final.
For South Africa, Kagiso Rabada was a standout performer, claiming three wickets, while Lungi Ngidi matched him with three of his own.
Cautious Start
Earlier, Australia’s openers began their innings cautiously after securing a 74-run lead in the first innings.
Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne weathered the new ball well, facing off for 10 overs.
Australia’s steady progress was interrupted when Kagiso Rabada struck twice in an over, dismissing Khawaja and Cameron Green within the span of two deliveries.
Khawaja was caught behind for six runs, while Green went without scoring, leaving Australia at 28 for 2 after just 10.4 overs.
Marnus Labuschagne showed some resilience with his 16 runs, while Steve Smith remained unbeaten on four at the tea break.
Earlier, Australia’s captain Pat Cummins delivered an outstanding bowling performance, taking six wickets and skittling South Africa for just 138 runs after lunch. This stellar display ensured that Australia maintained a solid 74-run first-innings lead.
South Africa’s First Innings
South Africa began their innings at 43 for 4 in 22 overs, with skipper Temba Bavuma and David Bedingham building a crucial 64-run partnership despite early setbacks on day one.
Australia made a vital breakthrough before lunch, dismissing Temba Bavuma, who was caught by Marnus Labuschagne after contributing a gritty 36 runs from 84 balls, helping his side reach a total of 94 in 39.2 overs.
Despite David Bedingham’s efforts to stabilise the innings, South Africa struggled to build momentum. By lunchtime, Bedingham was not out on 39, while Kyle Verreynne had 11 runs off 30 balls, as the scorecard read 121 for 5.
Like Australia on day one, South Africa suffered a dramatic collapse post-lunch, adding only 17 runs to their total. David Bedingham emerged as a silver lining for South Africa, contributing a resilient 45 runs that included six fours.
For Australia, Pat Cummins was the standout bowler, capturing six wickets, while Mitchell Starc added two more to his tally.
Day One WTC Final
On day one, Australia had established control through strong bowling from their pace trio, following a disappointing batting display.
They were all out for a meagre total of 212 runs after South Africa won the toss and opted to bowl first.
Kagiso Rabada shone with the ball for South Africa, taking five wickets, while Beau Webster led the Australian batting effort with a score of 72 runs off 92 deliveries.
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