Steve Smith's sublime form continues in red-ball cricket, and his ability to come good in big games enhances his reputation as a fierce competitor. On the opening day of the World Test Championship Final 2025 (WTC) match, the 36-year-old fought fire with fire by countering the likes of Rabada, Jansen, and Ngidi, who were in the midst of a hostile spell. He eventually fought his way through to a well-compiled 66 (112) before succumbing to Aiden Markram in the second session. 

By doing so, Steve Smith etched his name in the record books by becoming the highest run scorer at Lord's in the Test format. Smith went past some of the most iconic legendary figures, including the likes of Garfield Sobers and Don Bradman, to achieve this monumental milestone. He now holds a tally of 591 runs across 10 Test innings at Lord's, the most by any visiting batter from a Test-playing nation. 

See also: WATCH: Marco Jansen amazing reflex catch sees end of Steve Smith's innings in SA vs AUS WTC Final 2025

Most runs by a touring batter at Lord's

Smith reached this milestone by getting to his fifty, on the back of a flourishing boundary through extra cover. This innings contributed to his remarkable record at Lord's, increasing his overall total at the venue to 591 runs. Smith and Webster forged a crucial 79-run stand for the fifth wicket to get Australia out of the woods. After being reduced to 67-4 at Lunch, Smith stood tall by getting to his fifty, which added some degree of stability to the Australian innings. 

Webster, on the other hand, seemed very fidgety at the start but began growing in confidence as the innings progressed. Smith's dismissal brought about a sudden shift in momentum as the South African quicks tore through the lower-middle order to dismantle Australia for 212. In response, Starc, Hazlewood, and Cummins launched a late assault with the ball to dent South Africa's high and reduce them to 43-4 by the end of Day 1.

The battle for the mace heats up as Australia and South Africa gear up for an intense World Test Championship (WTC) Final showdown starting on June 11 at Lord's. This Test will also mark the first meeting between the two sides since 2023. The Australian skipper Pat Cummins is all set for glory once again, eyeing his second consecutive WTC title for his country. 

Ahead of the blockbuster encounter, renowned Indian commentator Aakash Chopra explains what makes Pat Cummins special and why he can turn out to be a serious threat for the Proteas. Pat has previously led Australia to ODI World Cup glory by defeating the tournament India in a full-house Ahmedabad stadium and later followed it up by outclassing the same opposition again in the Border Gavaskar Trophy (2024-25) Test series.  

See also: SA vs AUS, WTC Final 2025: South Africa vs Australia, Match Preview

Aakash Chopra's honest verdict on Pat Cummins

In a discussion between Aakash Chopra and former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh, the duo lauded Cummins' all-round abilities and see him as someone who could pose a serious challenge to South Africa. They both went on to agree that Cummins is a true match-winner for his side and has a great game sense that sets him apart from the rest. 

“Pat Cummins is the biggest threat. His leadership, his bowling when there is a partnership, his batting lower down the order—he contributes across departments. He leads from the front and always keeps the opposition under pressure.”

A real battle for the ages await South Africa as they find themselves on the cusp of a historic feat. South Africa have had multiple failed attempts while getting their hands on the ICC Trophy. They previously missed on the 2024 T20 World Cup title, coming mighty close to the finishing line, only to throw it away at the last minute. They would want to brush the scars of the painful T20 World Cup defeat aside and shift all their attention to securing the prestigious ICC World Test Championship mace. 

Cricket enthusiasts around the globe were left in awe as James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, took to the field for what might be his final Test match against the West Indies. A career that spanned nearly two decades, marked by remarkable consistency and unparalleled skill, was celebrated with a performance that reminded everyone why Anderson is considered one of the greatest bowlers in the history of the sport.

The Final Test: England vs. West Indies

As England took on the West Indies in what was expected to be Anderson’s swansong, the match carried a significant emotional weight. England’s batter set a solid foundation with a 250-run lead in the first innings, providing Anderson with the perfect stage to showcase his skills one last time.

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Anderson’s magic on Day 2

With England in a commanding position, Anderson opened the bowling on Day 2, determined to make a lasting impact. His first major strike came when he dismissed West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite with a superb inswinger. This was a vintage Anderson delivery, one that left the batter completely flummoxed and reaffirmed Anderson’s mastery over swing bowling.

The Art of swing bowling

Anderson’s ability to swing the ball, both conventionally and reverse, has been a cornerstone of his success. His inswinger to Brathwaite was a perfect example of his skill – the ball dipped low and swung back sharply, deceiving the batter and hitting the stumps.

Second Spell: Anderson’s 703rd wicket

Later in the day, Anderson returned to claim his 703rd Test wicket by dismissing Alick Athanaze. This dismissal further dented the West Indies’ hopes and showcased Anderson’s relentless pursuit of excellence. By the end of Day 2, the West Indies were reeling at 79/6, staring at an innings defeat.

A Star is Born: Atkinson’s debut

While Anderson prepared to bid farewell, another pacer made headlines. Gus Atkinson, a 26-year-old debutant, announced his arrival on the Test stage with a sensational performance. Atkinson’s seven-wicket haul in the first innings of the match was a glimpse into England’s future in fast bowling.

Atkinson’s debut could not have been more impressive. His ability to generate pace and movement troubled the West Indies batters, drawing comparisons with some of the great fast bowlers of the past. His performance ensured that even as Anderson’s career drew to a close, England’s bowling attack remained in capable hands.

A farewell to remember

The atmosphere on Anderson’s last day was charged with emotion. Teammates, opponents, and fans paid tribute to a player who has given so much to the game. Anderson’s farewell was a fitting end to a career that has been characterized by professionalism, passion, and a relentless drive to succeed.