South Africa Unveil Formidable Playing XI for WTC Final Showdown Against Australia
In a groundbreaking moment for South African cricket, the Proteas have announced their Playing XI for the highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia, scheduled to commence on Wednesday at a venue yet to be confirmed. This clash, dubbed the Ultimate Test, marks South Africa’s historic first appearance in a WTC Final, and the team is brimming with talent and determination to claim the coveted title.
Captain Temba Bavuma revealed the lineup in a press conference in New Delhi, showcasing a squad that strikes an enviable balance between fiery pace bowling and resilient batting depth. Leading the batting charge is Ryan Rickelton, the top run-scorer for South Africa in the WTC 2023–25 cycle with an impressive tally of 578 runs at an average of 52.54. He will open alongside seasoned campaigners Aiden Markram and Bavuma himself, who has also been among the runs with 512 in the cycle. The middle order is fortified by the likes of Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham, while Kyle Verreynne takes up the gloves as the wicketkeeper.
A notable inclusion in the batting lineup is Wiaan Mulder at the crucial No. 3 position, a role he has recently embraced during Tests against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Despite his relative inexperience at this spot, Bavuma expressed unwavering confidence in the 26-year-old all-rounder. ‘Mulder is still finding his feet in that position, but having played alongside him and witnessed his growth in red-ball cricket over the last two years, I’m confident he can deliver,’ Bavuma remarked. ‘It’s about backing him to play his natural game, even in a high-pressure situation like the WTC Final. We’re all behind him.’
On the bowling front, South Africa have opted for a formidable pace attack led by the talismanic Kagiso Rabada, who has claimed 62 wickets in the current WTC cycle at a staggering average of 20.11. He is complemented by the towering Marco Jansen and the experienced Lungi Ngidi, who pipped Dane Paterson for a spot in the final XI. Bavuma elaborated on this tough call, highlighting tactical considerations. ‘Dane did exceptionally well for us towards the end of last season, but we’ve gone with Lungi for a bit more pace and height. He also has a better record at this level and prior experience in these conditions, which we believe will complement our attack better alongside Mulder’s medium pace.’
The spin department will be handled by Keshav Maharaj, the sole specialist spinner in the squad. With 158 Test wickets to his name, including several match-defining performances on turning tracks, Maharaj is expected to play a pivotal role if the pitch offers any assistance to slow bowlers.
As South Africa gear up to face the mighty Australians, who have dominated Test cricket with their aggressive brand of play under Pat Cummins, this final promises to be a clash of titans. The Proteas will draw inspiration from their resilient campaign in the WTC, where they secured crucial victories against teams like India and New Zealand to earn their spot. With a blend of youth and experience, South Africa’s XI looks poised to challenge for the ultimate prize in Test cricket.
South Africa Playing XI for WTC Final: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.
Can the Proteas etch their name in history by winning their maiden WTC title, or will Australia’s relentless machine overpower them? Only time will tell as the Ultimate Test unfolds. Stay tuned for live updates and expert analysis on this epic showdown.