WTC Final 2025: On a dramatic and emotional Friday the 13th, while the world outside faced chaos, something magical was happening at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. South Africa, chasing a tough target of 282 runs against mighty Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, found hope and heart in two of their most resilient cricketers – Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma.
This was more than just cricket. It was about belief, bravery, and battling against the odds.
All You Need to Know
- Match: WTC Final 2025 – Day 3
- Teams: South Africa vs Australia
- Venue: Lord’s Cricket Ground, London
- Target for South Africa: 282 runs
- Current SA score: 213/2
- Partnership: Markram & Bavuma – 143 runs
- Runs needed for victory: 69
- Markram: 102* (not out)
- Bavuma: 65* (not out), battling hamstring pain
- Day 3 Highlight: Steve Smith suffers compound dislocation
Day Started with Drama, Ended with Grit
The world had woken up to tragic global headlines – a plane crash, a war escalation – but inside the peaceful walls of Lord’s, cricket went on. Australia, starting the day with just two wickets in hand, stretched their lead to 281, thanks to Mitchell Starc’s gritty 53-run knock.
South Africa were left with a tough chase – 282 to win in the fourth innings at Lord’s. Only once has such a chase been successful at this historic ground, way back in 1984 by West Indies.
Early Trouble for South Africa
The chase didn’t start smoothly. Opener Ryan Rickelton fell early to Starc. Soon after, Wiaan Mulder also gave his wicket away after looking somewhat steady. At 70/2, it looked like Australia were tightening their grip again.
But what followed was a strong and emotional partnership between two experienced South African batters – Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma.
Markram’s Heroic Ton, Bavuma’s Brave Stand
Markram batted like a man on a mission. He was calm, confident, and completely focused. Every shot spoke of intent and belief. As the day wore on, he kept building his innings and finally brought up a sensational century just before stumps. As he reached the hundred, Markram wiped away his tears – the emotions were too much to hold.
At the other end, Bavuma showed what it means to fight. He pulled a hamstring mid-innings and for a while could barely run. But he didn’t give up. With pain in every step, Bavuma continued, and slowly, with care and courage, he reached a hard-fought fifty.
Steve Smith Injured, Luck Turns South Africa’s Way
During Australia’s fielding, Steve Smith, one of their best catchers, injured his finger while trying to grab a sharp edge from Bavuma. He left the field in pain and was later taken to hospital. Without him, Australia lost an edge in the slip cordon.
It felt like the day belonged to South Africa – not just on the scoreboard, but in spirit.
What Lies Ahead?
South Africa now need just 69 more runs to win their first ever World Test Championship title. Australia, though, will not give up easily. With bowlers like Starc, Hazlewood, and Lyon, they still have firepower.
But Friday belonged to Markram and Bavuma – two players who didn’t just bat, but inspired a team and a nation. With history within touching distance, Day 4 promises to be unforgettable.
Sometimes, cricket gives us moments that go beyond the scoreboard. On Friday, with the world facing sorrow, South African cricket gave its people a reason to smile. Markram’s tears and Bavuma’s grit reminded us why we love this game.
Now, just 69 runs stand between South Africa and their greatest Test victory in history. Whatever happens next, this day will be remembered as the day when Markram and Bavuma made a nation believe.
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FAQs
Who are the top performers of Day 3 in the WTC Final 2025?
Aiden Markram scored a brilliant unbeaten century and Temba Bavuma scored a fighting fifty despite injury.
What happened to Steve Smith?
Steve Smith suffered a serious finger injury (compound dislocation) while fielding and was taken to hospital.
What is the target for South Africa to win?
South Africa needs 282 to win. At stumps on Day 3, they were 213/2, needing just 69 more.
When was the last time such a chase succeeded at Lord’s?
In 1984, West Indies successfully chased 342 against England with Gordon Greenidge scoring 214*.
Will South Africa win their first WTC title?
They are very close now, but it all depends on how they play the final day. It’s going to be a thrilling finish.
