South Africa Clinches the Mace, Defeating Australia to Win WTC 2025

In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 World Test Championship on Saturday, South Africa emerged as champions by defeating Australia by 5 wickets and securing the prestigious Mace Trophy.

The Proteas comfortably chased down the 69-run target on the fourth morning at Lord’s in London, with Kyle Verreynne striking the winning shot to secure South Africa’s first senior men’s ICC trophy since 1998.

Opener Aiden Markram was dismissed late in the chase with just six runs left to win, but his crucial knock of 136 proved to be the defining factor in a match where the bowlers largely held the upper hand.

South Africa encountered only two other setbacks on the final morning: captain Temba Bavuma (66) was removed by his Australian counterpart Pat Cummins (1/59) in the third over of the day, offering Australia a glimmer of hope, and Mitchell Starc (3/66) broke through Tristan Stubbs’ (8) defence when 41 runs were still needed.

Much like his composed performance on the pivotal third day, Markram remained calm, patiently punishing loose deliveries and making batting appear effortless as South Africa edged closer to the target.

Even the dismissals of Bavuma and Stubbs didn’t rattle his focus. When he finally fell to Josh Hazlewood (1/58) with victory in sight, it simply gave him the chance to take in the moment and earn a standing ovation from the appreciative crowd at Lord’s.

As Markram’s ton glided SA to the historic win, the pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada was instrumental in the victory, claiming nine wickets across both innings.

The victory marks a significant achievement for South African cricket, highlighting their dominance in the longest format of the game.

The final match showcased intense competition between two cricketing powerhouses, with South Africa displaying exceptional skill and resilience. Their bowlers and batsmen combined effectively to outplay Australia, who had been strong contenders throughout the tournament.

Fans around the world celebrated South Africa’s triumph, with social media buzzing with the hashtags #WTC25 and #SAvAUS. The win not only brings glory to South African cricket but also adds a memorable chapter to the history of the World Test Championship.

🏆 CHAMPIONS OF THE WORLD!🏆

South Africa beat Australia by 5 wickets to win the ICC World Test Championship!

A huge moment for the Proteas and every fan who’s backed them all the way 🇿🇦🔥#TeamSA #forMyCountry #WTCFinal #ProteasWTCFinal pic.twitter.com/es7RvJEZoq

— Team South Africa (@OfficialTeamRSA) June 14, 2025

Aiden Markram's ton steers the way for South Africa to a historic #WTC25 Final victory 🏆

How the final day unfolded ➡️ https://t.co/BjRy7oF0Sd pic.twitter.com/GZsC1iKddr

— ICC (@ICC) June 14, 2025

"My grandmother named me Temba because it means hope. 𝐇𝐎𝐏𝐄 for our country." 💚#WTC25 | #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/MdELta7dVe

— Sunrisers Eastern Cape (@SunrisersEC) June 14, 2025

This victory is a testament to South Africa’s strategic planning and team effort, reflecting their growth and consistency in Test cricket. It also sets the stage for exciting future contests between these two rivals.

Cricket enthusiasts, including followers of international Test matches and leagues like the Big Bash, have hailed this final as one of the most exciting in recent years. South Africa’s win will inspire upcoming players and fans alike, reinforcing the prestige of Test cricket on the global stage.