As the cricketing world braces for a monumental showdown, Australia and South Africa are set to reignite their storied rivalry in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. Scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2025, this clash marks their first Test encounter in two years and promises to be a defining moment in red-ball cricket. Beyond the stakes of the WTC title, this match carries the weight of history, echoing a rare meeting at the same venue over a century ago during the groundbreaking Triangular Tournament of 1912.
Setting the Stage: Road to the Final
Both teams have earned their place in this prestigious final through grit and consistency. South Africa, under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, clinched their spot with an impressive record, winning 8 of their 12 Tests in the WTC cycle, amassing a points percentage of 69.44%. Their resolute performances, especially in challenging away conditions, have made them a formidable force. On the other hand, Australia, led by the tactical brilliance of Pat Cummins, secured their berth with a points percentage of 67.54% across 19 matches. With a blend of seasoned stars like Steve Smith and emerging talents like Travis Head, the Aussies remain a powerhouse in Test cricket.
A Rivalry for the Ages
The rivalry between these two cricketing giants spans over a century, with 101 Test matches played between them since their first encounter in 1902. Their duels have often been intense, marked by iconic moments and, at times, controversy, such as the infamous Sandpaper Gate scandal during the 2018 series in South Africa. While Australia holds the upper hand historically with 55 wins to South Africa’s 27 (and 19 draws), the Proteas have shown remarkable resilience in recent years, making this final at the ‘Home of Cricket’ a tantalizing prospect.
Echoes of 1912: When Lords Last Hosted This Rivalry
Remarkably, this WTC Final isn’t the first time these two sides have locked horns at Lord’s. Their last Test meeting at this hallowed ground dates back to the summer of 1912, during the unique Triangular Tournament—a pioneering event featuring three teams: England, Australia, and South Africa. This tournament, the first of its kind, saw each side play the others thrice, spanning nine matches between May and August. It was a historic experiment in international cricket, not replicated until the Asian Test Championship in 1998.
In that memorable 1912 encounter at Lord’s, South Africa, captained by Frank Mitchell, won the toss and elected to bat but could only muster 263 runs in their first innings. Australia, powered by a disciplined bowling attack and a solid batting display, responded with 390 runs, gaining a significant lead. The Proteas faltered in their second innings, managing just 173, allowing Australia to chase down the target without losing a wicket, sealing a 10-wicket victory. While the teams played another match in the tournament at Trent Bridge, which ended in a draw, it was England who ultimately emerged as champions of the series—a format that never saw a repeat due to logistical challenges and the outbreak of World War I.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter at Lord’s
Fast forward 113 years, and the stage is set for another historic chapter. The modern-day teams bring contrasting strengths to the table. Australia’s pace battery, led by Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, is expected to test the South African batsmen on the notoriously tricky Lord’s pitch, which often assists seamers early on. Meanwhile, South Africa’s bowling attack, featuring the fiery Kagiso Rabada and the wily spin of Keshav Maharaj, will look to exploit any vulnerabilities in the Australian batting lineup.
Off the field, the atmosphere at Lord’s is expected to be electric, with fans from both nations flocking to witness this rare final. Adding to the intrigue is the weather forecast, which predicts overcast conditions—potentially a decisive factor in the outcome of this five-day battle.
Conclusion: History Meets Destiny
As Australia and South Africa prepare to face off in the WTC Final 2025, they carry not just the hopes of their nations but also the legacy of a rivalry that has captivated generations. From the dusty pages of 1912 to the modern spectacle at Lord’s, this match is more than a contest for a title—it’s a bridge between past and present, a celebration of Test cricket’s enduring spirit. Will Cummins’ men dominate as they did over a century ago, or will Bavuma’s Proteas rewrite history? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: cricket fans are in for an unforgettable showdown at the ‘Mecca of Cricket’.