🏆 ICC Trophy Finally Back in South Africa’s Hands
ICC Trophy glory returned to South Africa after a long wait of 27 years. On Saturday morning at Lord’s, the Proteas clinched the WTC Final 2025 by defeating Australia with five wickets to spare. This remarkable win was led by Aiden Markram’s outstanding 136, ending decades of heartbreak in ICC events.
For South African fans, this wasn’t just another win—it was a moment of emotional redemption. They had seen their team stumble in numerous knockout stages, but this time, things were different.
⚔️ Early Drama: Bavuma Falls, But Hope Stays Alive
ICC Trophy Dream Faces an Early Test
Needing 69 more runs at the start of Day 4, South Africa began cautiously. However, Pat Cummins struck early, dismissing Temba Bavuma for 66. It was a massive blow, yet Bavuma’s gritty 147-run partnership with Markram the previous evening had already tilted the match in South Africa’s favor.
Importantly, Bavuma received a standing ovation as he walked off. Despite his injury, he had fought bravely for the team’s ICC Trophy dreams. That moment underlined just how much the title meant to him and to millions of South Africans.
💥 Reviews Burnt, Pressure Builds
Australia’s Frustration Grows in WTC Final
Australia sensed an opportunity and grew aggressive. Nevertheless, their decisions with the DRS quickly backfired. They wasted a review for a caught-behind appeal against Tristan Stubbs, and then another for LBW against David Bedingham, only to find the impact outside off.
Soon after, Mitchell Starc bowled Stubbs with a beautiful delivery that cut in sharply. But with both reviews gone, Australia had no way to challenge decisions—even when it mattered the most. Their frustration was visible, and time was running out.
🎯 Markram Holds Firm as ICC Trophy Beckons
Markram Keeps Calm Under Pressure
While wickets fell around him, Markram remained solid. He brought up South Africa’s 250 with a well-placed boundary, signaling that the finish line was near. His composure was key, especially as the Aussies brought on the second new ball.
Even then, Markram continued to time the ball sweetly. However, he eventually fell to Josh Hazlewood, picking out Travis Head at midwicket. Instead of celebrating, the Australians applauded—recognizing the sheer brilliance of his match-winning knock.
🔚 The Final Moments: Verreynne Seals the Win
ICC Trophy Secured in Style
With just a handful of runs left, Kyle Verreynne attempted a ramp shot that resulted in a loud appeal. However, with no reviews left, Australia could do little but watch. On the very next delivery, Verreynne flicked the ball for a single—sealing the historic victory.
At that very moment, the ICC Trophy belonged to South Africa again. Players rushed the field, some in tears, others in disbelief. After decades of pain, they had finally rewritten history—and what better place to do it than Lord’s.
📋 WTC Final 2025 – Match Summary
Australia
- 1st Innings: 212
(Webster 72, Smith 66; Rabada 5/51, Jansen 3/49) - 2nd Innings: 206
(Starc 58, Carey 43; Rabada 4/59, Ngidi 3/38)*
South Africa
- 1st Innings: 138
(Bedingham 45, Bavuma 36; Cummins 6/28, Starc 2/41) - 2nd Innings: 282/5
(Markram 136, Bavuma 66; Starc 3/66)
✅ Result: South Africa won by 5 wickets






