In a gripping Day 3 of the WTC Final at Lord’s, Markram and Bavuma take South Africa to brink of glory with a resilient 143-run partnership, defying Australia’s world-class bowling lineup and chasing history.
Markram and Bavuma Take South Africa to Brink of Glory in WTC Final Showdown
In a match clouded by real-world tragedies and heavy global headlines, cricket offered a glimmer of hope and resilience at Lord’s on Friday the 13th. On Day 3 of the World Test Championship Final 2025, Markram and Bavuma took South Africa to the brink of glory with a breathtaking and courageous batting effort against a formidable Australian attack.
Australia, who began the day at 218 ahead with only two wickets in hand, managed to stretch their lead to 281 thanks to Mitchell Starc’s counter-attacking 53. Josh Hazlewood supported him with a gritty 6, and their 59-run stand frustrated the South African bowlers for nearly two hours. Kagiso Rabada and Aiden Markram eventually wrapped up the innings, setting South Africa a target of 282.
The chase began shakily. Ryan Rickelton fell early, caught behind off Starc, and Wiaan Mulder followed after a hesitant drive. At 70/2, South Africa’s hopes rested on their experienced skipper Temba Bavuma and the in-form Aiden Markram.
Despite a stiff left hamstring and visible pain, Bavuma gritted through the discomfort. After a nervous start post-tea, he slowly found rhythm, collecting runs with clever placement and cautious running. His half-century came off a wide from Lyon and was greeted with reserved relief.
At the other end, Markram was batting like a man on a mission. Every shot showed conviction, and every leave carried purpose. He reached his century with a graceful clip through midwicket and, overwhelmed by emotion, wiped away tears as he raised his bat. The moment was symbolic Markram had not only scored a hundred but carried South Africa’s dream on his shoulders.
As the sun set on a dramatic day at Lord’s, Markram and Bavuma’s unbeaten 143-run stand had brought South Africa within 69 runs of winning their first World Test Championship title. Against all odds, against Australia, at the historic Lord’s Markram and Bavuma take South Africa to brink of glory.
Let that sink in. It’s more than just cricket it’s a story of resilience, courage, and belief.
READ MORE:
