WTC 2023-2025: Australia and South Africa Clash in Final at Lord's

Final Showdown at Lord's

The much-anticipated day has finally arrived as Australia and South Africa prepare to face off in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground. After winning the toss, South African captain Temba Bavuma chose to bowl first, inviting the Australian team to bat. In a surprising move, Marnus Labuschagne joined Usman Khawaja as the opening pair, marking the fifth alteration in the opening lineup since David Warner's retirement from Test cricket. Experts are concerned that these frequent changes could jeopardize Australia's chances of clinching the title.

A Changing Opening Partnership

Following David Warner's exit from Test cricket, Usman Khawaja has seen a revolving door of opening partners. Initially, Steve Smith partnered with him in four Tests against the West Indies and New Zealand from January to March 2024. Subsequently, Nathan McSweeney joined Khawaja for three Tests against India in late 2024. Sam Konstas then opened alongside Khawaja in two Tests against India in early 2025, followed by Travis Head in two Tests against Sri Lanka. Now, Marnus Labuschagne steps in as Khawaja's partner for the WTC final against South Africa, indicating Australia's ongoing search for a consistent opening partner.

Playing XIs

South Africa (Playing XI): Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Temba Bavuma(c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne(w), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

Australia (Playing XI): Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Alex Carey(w), Pat Cummins(c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood