Kagiso Rabada's Stellar Performance Shines in WTC Finals Against Australia

South Africa's Strategy and Early Breakthroughs

In the WTC finals, South Africa's captain Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first, inviting Australia to take the field. With a strong lineup, Bavuma believed it was advantageous for his team to chase. The Proteas featured a formidable pace attack, reintroducing Lungi Ngidi, but the standout was Kagiso Rabada. The 30-year-old bowler aimed to lead his team to victory and made an immediate impact by troubling Australian opener Usman Khawaja. After delivering three maiden overs, Rabada finally dismissed Khawaja on his 20th delivery, surpassing the world’s top bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who went wicketless in the finals.

Rabada's Dominance Over Australian Batsmen

Rabada continued to unsettle the Australian batting lineup by taking out both Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green. Khawaja was dismissed without scoring after facing 19 dot balls, while Green managed only 4 runs. This put the reigning champions in a precarious position. With Khawaja's wicket, Rabada reached a significant milestone, achieving 50 Test wickets against Australia in just 11 matches.

Kagiso Rabada's Impressive Test Career

Throughout his 70 Test matches, Kagiso Rabada has claimed 327 wickets, with his best performance being an impressive 7 for 112 against England. He ranks among the top five wicket-takers for South Africa in Test cricket, surpassing renowned players like Morne Morkel.

Playing XI for Both Teams

South Africa (Playing XI): Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma(c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne(w), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi
Australia (Playing XI): Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey(w), Pat Cummins(c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood