WTC Final 2025 https://www.cricketwinner.com WTC Final 2025 Wed, 30 Jul 2025 05:13:59 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[Top 5 highest successful run chases at Lord’s]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/top-5-highest-successful-run-chases-at-lord-s/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/top-5-highest-successful-run-chases-at-lord-s/ Mon, 14 Jul 2025 09:28:01 GMT

Run chases are always exciting and nerve-wracking in the fourth innings at Lord’s. And this upcoming result between England and India on the fifth day will be the same. Both teams put up the same score on the board in their respective fourth innings as the dry batting surface didn’t provide any chance to the bowlers to make any inroads.

But as the heat started to take place in London, the surface began to change its colour. A few dry rough patches started to come around the batters’ to which the bowlers were getting uneven bounce. A few balls, on the fourth day of the ongoing Lord’s Test, were jumping at the shoulder height while a few deliveries were crashing on the knees.

India will face several issues in their 193-run chase as they found themselves 58/4 at the end of the third day’s play. The entire responsibility is on the overnight batter, KL Rahul, who could keep calm in the middle while Rishabh Pant can show his aggressive batting from the other end.

Let’s take a look at the top five highest successful chases at Lord’s in Test history.

5. 218/3 by England vs New Zealand in 1965

It came 60 years ago when the home side chased down a huge score of 218 runs with seven wickets in hand. Batting first, the Blackcaps put 175 in the first innings with Bruce Taylor and Vic Pollard celebrating their respective half-centuries.

The home side took a 150+ run lead thanks to the 119-run knock from Colin Cowdrey. Three Kiwi batters got fifties, but none of them could stretch it to the three-figure mark. Later, Ted Dexter and Geoff Boycott got them over the line with seven wickets in hand.

4. 279/5 by England vs New Zealand in 2022

It was the very first red-ball encounter for England under Ben Stokes’ captaincy and Brendon McCullum’s coaching. Both teams failed to put 150 runs on the board, with the hosts taking a lead of nine runs. But the Blackcaps made a fine comeback with 285 runs on the board, thanks to Daryl Mitchell scoring 108 runs while Tom Blundell scored 96 runs on the board.

See Also: [WATCH] ‘600 runs enough’- Ben Duckett teases Shubman Gill during ENG vs IND 2025 third Test at Lord's

That was, however, the only stand of the Kiwis’ second innings. But that England side was a different beast as they chased down the score with five wickets in hand, celebrating an unbeaten 115 runs from Joe Root.

3. 282/5 by South Africa vs Australia in 2025

This chase took place just six weeks ago at Lord’s when South Africa lifted the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 against Australia in the final. The only difference from the other games on the list of this chase was that it happened quite early in the game. On a tough surface, the Proteas gave away a lead of over 80 runs to the Aussies. But Kagiso Rabada’s inspiring bowling set the stage.

The biggest knock for the Proteas in the chase came from Aiden Markram, who drilled 136 runs in 207 balls to carry them over the line. Captain Temba Bavuma also managed 66 runs in 134 deliveries for the successful chase.

2. 282/3 by England vs New Zealand in 2004

It was the farewell Test for the former England captain, Nasser Hussain, and the debut of the would-be captain of the side, Andrew Strauss. Thanks to multiple fifties, the Kiwis put 386 runs on the board in the first innings before the home side took a small lead thanks to Strauss’s century on debut. The captain, Marcus Trescothick, also clubbed 86 runs in a fine 190-run opening stand.

Mark Richardson scored 101 in the second innings while Brendon McCullum fell short of the landmark by four runs. In the fourth innings, England chased down 282/3 quite comfortably as Hussain remained unbeaten on 103 runs while Andre Strauss also notched up 83 runs in 171 balls.

  1. 344/1 by the West Indies vs England in 1984

It’s hard to believe a huge 344 runs being chased in the fourth innings of a Test, and that too in the past. But the success could only be earned by the old West Indies, which had all the ingredients with them. Graeme Flower’s 106 helped the home side put 286 on the board before the tourists fell for just 245 runs. Allan Lamb in the second innings drilled 110 runs while Ian Botham fetched 81.

The case was always going to be a tough one, but Gordon Greenidge was in the mood and he smashed an unbeaten 214 runs in 242 balls at a strike rate of nearly 90, while Larry Gomes remained unbeaten on 92 runs in 140 balls. The Caribbean side chased down the score of 344 with nine wickets in hand under the captaincy of Viv Richards.

]]> <![CDATA[WTC Final breaks new records in live broadcast and digital records]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/wtc-final-breaks-new-records-in-live-broadcast-and-digital-records/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/wtc-final-breaks-new-records-in-live-broadcast-and-digital-records/ Tue, 01 Jul 2025 17:26:32 GMT

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, which saw South Africa and Australia play at Lord's, has created a new record for broadcast and digital viewing in India. The match that happened from June 11 to June 14 that had great drama ended with South Africa winning by five wickets in their first WTC title.

This third edition of the WTC Final became Star Sports network’s highest-rated and most-watched non-India Test match on television, clocking an impressive 2.94 billion minutes of viewing and reaching 47 million viewers. On digital platforms, the match recorded 225 million views—the highest ever for a non-India Test—nearly matching the audience figures for the 2023 final between India and Australia at The Oval.

A total of 109,227 fans went to Lord's over four days, further demonstrating the fixture's appeal. There were also some astounding performances from Aiden Markram, who scored 136 to win the match in the fourth innings, and Kagiso Rabada, who took nine wickets in the match, which helped South Africa achieve a famous victory.

Jay Shah Hails Global Passion for Test Cricket and Broadcast Excellence

ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted the significance of the record-breaking viewership numbers with the news, particularly in India.

“The remarkable viewership numbers for the ICC World Test Championship Final, across both broadcast and digital platforms, are a powerful testament to the appeal of high-quality Test cricket and the elevated context of the WTC Final,” said Shah.
“This format continues to command a loyal and passionate global following and remains an integral part of our sport’s identity.”

See Also: Shikhar Dhawan officially releases debut autobiography 'The One.'

He also applauded the role of the ICC’s broadcast partner in enhancing the match experience for viewers.
“A special mention to JioStar, whose innovative and immersive coverage captured the drama, emotion, and atmosphere of the ‘Ultimate Test’ in a way that deeply resonated with audiences around the world.”

“What makes this success even more special is the enthusiasm shown by fans in regions beyond the two competing nations, reaffirming that cricket’s reach is truly international and that the purest form of the game can thrive beyond national affiliations.”

]]> <![CDATA[South African great questions WTC format even after Proteas' historic 2025 final victory]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/south-african-great-questions-wtc-format-even-after-proteas-historic-2025-final-victory/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/south-african-great-questions-wtc-format-even-after-proteas-historic-2025-final-victory/ Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:56:45 GMT

AB de Villiers has raised questions about the ICC WTC cycle and suggested changes for it, even after South Africa won the 2025 WTC final by beating defending champions Australia at Lord's. The former South African skipper wants the tournament to be scheduled in such a way that it provides a fair chance to every team. The former right-handed batters want it to be scheduled on a four-year cycle like the limited-overs World Cup, where every team gets a chance to play the other teams.

South Africa played 12 matches, whereas England played the highest number of games (22 games) out of the 9 teams during the 2023-25 WTC cycle. The Proteas didn't play any series against England or Australia in the earlier cycle and played just 2 tests at home.

"This moment won't be lost. But, yes to a certain extent something needs to be done. I saw the schedule that came out for the next cycle of the WTC and there is an improvement, but i still will there's work that still needs to be done there to just get it as consistent as fair as possible and as fair as possible for all for all test playing nations. You want to get to that final feeling like you have played against all these nations. May be a four year cycle would be nice. We have done that in the past with one day internationals, so why not in test cricket ? It would make sense and it would give the organisers just so much time to get a really fair and, well balanced system out there," He told BBC Sport on Tuesday

De Villiers praised the South African team for finally winning an ICC trophy after 27 years saying that De Villiers said that although it would be a long time until their next Test match, there was no doubt it wouldn't be forgotten. He expressed complete confidence that the Proteas had stirred the emotions of South African cricket fans and that they would patiently wait for the next encounter. South Africa start their next ICC test cycle against Pakistan in October when they face them in a two-match test series.

"It's a long time until our next test match, but there's np doubt it won't be forgotten. I have absolutely no doubt the Proteas have sort of stirred the emotions of the South African cricketing fans and they will patiently wait for that next encounter," De Villiers said 

See Also: Top 5 captains of World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle

De Villiers overjoyed after South Africa and RCB end their wait for trophies

AB de Villiers is overjoyed as both a former South Africa  cricketer and a former RCB player. South Africa’s long wait for an ICC trophy finally ended after 27 years with a memorable victory over Australia in the 2025 World Test Championship final at Lord’s. The emotional win marked a historic moment for the Proteas, sparking celebrations across the cricketing world and bringing immense pride to those who had long been a part of the team’s journey.

Adding to the joy, Royal Challengers Bangalore, the IPL franchise de Villiers represented for years, also broke their title drought. After 18 years of heartbreaks, RCB clinched their maiden IPL title by defeating Punjab Kings in the final on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. For de Villiers, witnessing both his national team and IPL side finally lifting major trophies made 2025 a truly unforgettable and fulfilling year.

]]> <![CDATA[Three South African players who won both WTC and 2014 U-19 World Cup]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/three-south-african-players-who-won-both-wtc-and-2014-u-19-world-cup/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/three-south-african-players-who-won-both-wtc-and-2014-u-19-world-cup/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 18:08:09 GMT

Finally, South Africa managed to win an ICC trophy by beating Australia in the 2025 WTC final at lords, which wiped out their chokers tag. Chasing 282 was a tough ask, but Aiden Markram's 136 and captain Temba Bavuma's 66 made things look simple. Pacer Kagiso Rabada played his part, claiming 9 wickets in the entire match.

Aiden Markram was announced the player of the match. The right-hander was also a part of the under-19 World Cup team that won the trophy in 2014 in the UAE. In this piece, we highlight three South African players who were part of both the 2025 WTC final as well as the 2014 Under-19 World Cup final team:

1.Aiden Markram

Markram was the core of the South African batting lineup in the 2025 WTC final. The right-hander got out for a duck in the first innings but scored a stupendous 136 in the second innings, helping his team chase 282 in difficult playing conditions. Markram showcased a calm temperament and batted with assurance.

The 30-year-old was the captain of the under-19 team that won the 2014 under-19 World Cup in the UAE. In that tournament, he scored 370 runs with an average of 123.33 and a strike rate of 77.89, scoring 2 centuries and 1 half century. Markram scored 66 in the final of that tournament against Pakistan, where South Africa needed just 132 to win the final. In that tournament, Markram was named the man of the tournament.

2.Kagiso Rabada

Rabada played a crucial role in the 2025 WTC final as his performance laid the foundation for South Africa's win. The pacer took full advantage after South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl. The 30-year-old cracked open the Australian batting line-up in the first innings, claiming 5/51 and taking crucial wickets. In the second innings, he registered figures of 4/59. 

Rabada was also a key figure during the 2104 under-19 World Cup in UAE when he claimed 10 wickets in the tournament with best figures of 6/25 against Australia in the semi-final, an economy rate of 3.10 and an average of 10.28. He was the second-highest wicket-taker in that tournament. In the final against Pakistan, his figures were 28/1 which were quite impressive as he didn't allow the Pakistani batters to score easily.

See Also:"Probably the best innings.." Former SA-born English star awestruck after Markram's match-winning heroics in WTC Final

3. Corbin Bosch

Bosch is amongst the most exciting all rounders in South African set up at the moment. He was included in the 2025 WTC final playing XI. He made his test debut last year against Pakistan, where he claimed 4/63 in the first innings of the first test at Centurion and also scored an impressive unbeaten 81.

The 30-year-old all-rounder was the player of the match during the final of the 2014 Under-19 World Cup against Pakistan in the UAE when he registered figures of 4/15 and also claimed 9 wickets in that tournament with an average of 14.66 and an economy rate of 3.25.

]]> <![CDATA[3 key lessons Team India can take from South Africa ahead of the upcoming test series against England]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/3-key-lessons-team-india-can-take-from-south-africa-ahead-of-the-upcoming-test-series-against-england/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/3-key-lessons-team-india-can-take-from-south-africa-ahead-of-the-upcoming-test-series-against-england/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 18:06:54 GMT

South Africa surprised everyone with an inspiring win over Australia in the 2025 World Test Championship final at Lord's. The Proteas managed to shed their chokers tag by winning an ICC event after a long time. South Africa showcased tremendous temperament in challenging playing conditions with their committed resolve.

Team India is all set to play a five-match test series against England from next week, and this win can be a motivational source for Team India. Team India will find the playing conditions tough, as it is difficult to beat England at home. Team India can certainly learn from South Africa on how to prepare for a challenging task. We discuss three key points that India can learn from South Africa as far as taking on England in England is concerned:

1. Preparing in the right manner

South Africa prepared well ahead of the WTC final as most of their players were recalled from franchise tournaments, including the IPL. The results were clearly visible as pacer Kagiso Rabada had enough time to prepare, and he was the one who played a crucial role in the win. He took 9 wickets in the entire match. He didn't even play the playoffs for the Gujarat Titans. On the other hand, Aiden Markram didn't play the last league match for Lucknow Super Giants against RCB to join the national team.

His century in the fourth innings turned out to be crucial for South Africa. On the other hand, key Team India players couldn't get preparation time during the 2023 WTC final due to IPL commitments, while some Australian players didn't play the 2023 IPL to prepare for the 2023 WTC final, and the result was visible.  

2.Dealing with Injuries and the team rebuilding phase

Former South African captain Dean Elgar's retirement call after the home test series against India was surprising. It was South Africa's first series of a new cycle, due to which they had to go back to a backup plan, and they had to appoint Temba Bavuma in a very short time. The team needed time to adjust under the leadership of a new captain. South Africa could hardly match Team India in the WTC points table during that period, and the team lost to a New Zealand team, which had new players. Players like Anrich Nortje, Gerald Coetzee and Nandre Burger's injuries gave the team management a tough time and they had to face problems while adding new players.

Players like Tristan Stubbs, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, Dane Paterson etc played their part during the entire WTC campaign. These players have added depth and enough options in the dugout. The Indian team is also in a similar situation in test cricket as they too are under a rebuilding phase in the five-day format after the retirement of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. It would be interesting to see how they cope up with this phase that could define their position in the next WTC cycle.

Also See:Watch: South Africa lifts Test mace after winning WTC Final 2025

3. Adjusting to conditions

South Africa won the toss in the final and elected to bowl first, knowing that the conditions and wicket would aid the batters as the match progressed, even though the conditions were overcast on the first day. South African bowlers bowled well and managed to bowl Australia out for 212.

Team India had also won the toss in the 2023 WTC final, but their bowlers couldn't take the advantage and allowed Australia to score 469, even though they were 76/3 at one stage. On the third day, when there was sunshine, South African batters took full advantage of the wicket and adjusted to conditions well that allowed their batters to play their shots as the ball was coming onto the bat nicely. Australian bowlers found it difficult to bowl on the wicket. 

]]> <![CDATA[How the year 2025 continues to witness historic title victories across all sports]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/how-the-year-2025-continues-to-witness-historic-title-victories-across-all-sports/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/how-the-year-2025-continues-to-witness-historic-title-victories-across-all-sports/ Thu, 19 Jun 2025 08:36:25 GMT

The year 2025 has witnessed some historic sporting events that have gone down in the record books, solely for being incredibly special. The year has been marked by teams bagging their first championship titles at an unprecedented level. Be it in cricket or football, the trend has remained consistent. In football, France's Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) defied all odds by winning their first UCL title in grand fashion. 

Speaking of cricket, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) achieved glory by earning their maiden IPL win by defeating PBKS in the IPL 2025 Final earlier in June. Subsequently, South Africa followed it up by ending their 27-year-long ICC title wait by winning the 2025 WTC Final against Australia by five wickets. It's certainly been a year of historic firsts that has delighted the fans worldwide.

So let us revisit those iconic moments to get inspired by their wonderful success stories.  

See also: CPL 2025: Trinbago Knight Riders announce their squad for the upcoming season

Top teams that secured their historic first title wins in 2025

How 2025 has been historical in Cricket

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (IPL) – RCB’s 2025 IPL victory was more than a title. It represented resilience, brilliant team-building, clever tactics, and emotional closure for a fanbase that spanned nearly two decades. The franchise put an end to their 18-year-long title drought by outclassing PBKS in a high-voltage run chase by six runs. The city of Bengaluru switched to a “Red Carnival” mode as fans erupted in joy. They resorted to fireworks, chanting fans, and citywide celebrations to express their happiness. The famous “Ee Sala Cup Namdu” chant (“This time the cup is ours”) resonated throughout, transitioning from wishful hope to triumphant reality. A planned open-top parade and felicitation at Vidhana Soudha was planned to welcome the RCB heroes for the monumental achievements, but sadly, the event took a tragic turn as the crowd went out of control and a stampede-like situation ensued, which claimed the lives of 11 souls. 

South Africa (WTC Final 2025) - South Africa's triumphant journey to their first-ever WTC title in 2025 was a watershed moment for the Proteas. The Rainbow Nation was the first team to qualify for the WTC 2023-25 cycle. At the time, many experts argued their journey to the top summit was relatively straightforward as they did not really need to contend with high-quality Test sides. Facing the tournament favorites, Australia, in the final was their toughest Test challenge in recent times, given Australia's record in the ICC finals. After being blown away for 138 in the first innings, Temba and Markram rolled the tide back in their team's favour by defining a match-defining partnership which took South Africa over the line in a convincing fashion. It was Proteas’ first major ICC title since 1998, and the win was celebrated lavishly at the OR Tambo airport when the team touched down for the first time since their WTC triumph. 

How 2025 has been historical in Football

Paris Saint-Germain (UCL title) - Amidst an unprecedented transformative breakthrough, PSG conquered Europe’s toughest club competition. The stage was set at the Allianz Arena in Munich, and Inter Milan was the unfortunate team that saw itself on the receiving end. They received an anhailating 5–0 defeat which set the record for the biggest win in a Champions League final. Luis Enrique orchestrated a shift from star-led superstardom to cohesive, youthful team-building, completing a treble and becoming one of the few managers to win two Champions Leagues. Doué and Mayulu showcased PSG's focus on rising French talents, backed by Vitinha, Hakimi, and Kvaratskhelia. To celebrate the historic win, thousands of fans poured onto the pitch in celebration. However, widespread celebrations in Paris turned violent—500+ arrests, two deaths, and numerous injuries.

]]> <![CDATA[WATCH: South Africa team reach their nation after winning WTC Final against Australia]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-south-africa-team-reach-their-nation-after-winning-wtc-final-against-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-south-africa-team-reach-their-nation-after-winning-wtc-final-against-australia/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 16:46:59 GMT

On June 14, 2025, South Africa created history by winning their maiden ICC World Test Championship title, defeating the tournament favorites Australia by five wickets at the Lord's. The Proteas fans all around the world cherished this euphoric moment, as this was South Africa's first ICC title win since 1998. In the process, they also became only the third team to win a WTC title. 

Temba and Co. achieved a monumental feat in world cricket, a feat which has eluded them for several decades. After several days of celebrations, it was time for the Proteas team to return home. Upon arrival, the team received a hero's welcome and was greeted by happy supporters. The live visuals of their arrival were captured on camera and have immediately become viral online. 

See also: South Africa strengthen bid for 2025 WTC Final at lord's with commanding victory

South African cricket team touches down for the first time since the WTC win

The South African team landed at the OR Tambo airport in Johannesburg on June 18. The skipper, Temba Bavuma, led the way, posing with the prestigious Test mace. After taking a few steps, he briefly stopped for a photo shoot along with the mace. His coach, Shukri Conrad, joined him shortly after, and the duo jointly lifted the mace together for the photo shoot. At the time of the coverage, the broadcaster expressed his delight and mentioned how big of an achievement this has been for the South African Test side. 

The WTC 2025 Final triumph has ended decades of heartbreak and misery for the South African side. Despite being a quality side, South Africa would often stumble in the knockout stage. But after years of perseverance, that WTC mace must feel extra special in their hands. 

The glorious WTC title win will inspire a new generation of Proteas players and fans alike. South Africa are scheduled to play a two-match Test series against Zimbabwe starting on June 28. This series will comprise their first Test assignment of the WTC 2025-27 cycle. 

]]> <![CDATA[Keshav Maharaj credits Lord Hanuman for WTC triumph against Australia]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/keshav-maharaj-credits-lord-hanuman-for-wtc-triumph-against-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/keshav-maharaj-credits-lord-hanuman-for-wtc-triumph-against-australia/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 01:17:30 GMT

Keshav Maharaj, who was born on 7 February 1990 in Durban, South Africa, is an Indian-origin left-arm orthodox spinner with ancestral ties to Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh. One of the most consistent bowlers in South African cricket, he was the supporting pillar of the team that won the 2025 WTC Final, removing Alex Carey and delivering a tight spell in the second innings to support Kagiso Rabada's 9-wicket haul in their record 5-wicket victory over Australia.

South Africa started Day 4 on 213/2, requiring 69 runs to chase the 282-run target. They chased it down successfully in 83.4 overs despite a late fright off Mitchell Starc's 3/66. Aiden Markram's unbeaten 136 (caught by Travis Head off Josh Hazlewood) was the cornerstone of the innings, while David Bedingham (21) and Kyle Verreynne (4)* finished the chase. The win was South Africa's first WTC title and their first ICC trophy since the 1998 Champions Trophy.

"In Hanuman I Trust": Maharaj's Faith and Spiritual Strength
Following the victory, Maharaj attributed Lord Hanuman's favor to his team's success, an indication of his strong spiritual faith. According to his post-match remarks, he attributed his trust in Hanuman for strength, a theme that has characterized his cricketing career. The Times of India reported this.

See Also: 'If we could achieve this feat..' - Shardul Thakur makes huge claim ahead of ENG vs IND Test series

Devotion to Hinduism is nothing new for Keshav Maharaj

Maharaj has consistently expressed his Hindu faith on and off the field. Following South Africa’s 2023 World Cup win over Pakistan, he posted “Jai Shree Hanuman” on social media. In 2024, he declared, “I am a devotee of Lord Hanuman and Lord Ram,” in reference to his entrance song ‘Ram Siya Ram’, which gained popularity among fans.

His bat, emblazoned with the ‘Om’ symbol, went viral during the 2023 World Cup, symbolizing the spiritual strength he draws from his beliefs. From spinning out top batters to inspiring fans with his unwavering faith, Keshav Maharaj stands not just as a cricketer but as a symbol of dedication—both to his craft and to his spiritual roots.

]]> <![CDATA[“He Was Broken.." Wiaan Mulder Reveals Emotional Post-WTC Final Call with Travis Head]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/he-was-broken-wiaan-mulder-reveals-emotional-post-wtc-final-call-with-travis-head/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/he-was-broken-wiaan-mulder-reveals-emotional-post-wtc-final-call-with-travis-head/ Tue, 17 Jun 2025 18:42:20 GMT

South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder shared a conversation he had with his IPL teammate and Australian star Travis Head after the World Test Championship final. South Africa finally ended their 27-year wait for an ICC title by winning the WTC final against Australia at Lord's, London.

This victory marked South Africa’s first major cricket triumph and helped them move past their long-standing reputation of falling short in crucial moments of big tournaments.

Mulder and Head are more than just international rivals—they were also teammates at Sunrisers Hyderabad during IPL 2025. Although Mulder didn’t get many matches, the two spent a lot of time together during training and bonded well. That friendship continued after the final in the form of a warm and emotional post-match conversation. South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder spoke about his emotional conversation with Australian star Travis Head after the World Test Championship final.

Also Read -23-year-old allrounder, who scored over 300 runs and took 29 wickets, died in Ahmedabad plain crash

“I actually spoke to him (Head) last night on the phone,” Mulder told ICC Digital. “He was happy for us and the way things went. Of course, he was heartbroken that they didn’t win, but I think the spirit of the game was as high and as good as it could be.”

Mulder also said that even though Australia is known for its tough image, this team showed great grace and sportsmanship in defeat.

“When you think about the Aussies, you often think of them as being a bit aggressive at times, but these guys are true champions,” he said. “Heady is one of the nicest people around, and Patty (Pat Cummins) is also a great guy.”

Mulder shared that he built a strong bond with both Head and Cummins during IPL 2025. Though he wasn’t in the playing XI often, he spent a lot of time training with them at Sunrisers Hyderabad. He regularly faced Head and Cummins in the nets—practice that helped him later in the WTC Final.

“I spent a lot of time with them during the IPL. There was a lot of friendly banter,” Mulder said.

Notably, it was Mulder who dismissed Head for just 7 runs in the second innings of the WTC final. He also praised the Australian team for the way they handled the loss, saying they showed true sportsmanship even in a tough moment.

]]> <![CDATA[Dale Steyn emotional reaction after South Africa's WTC final win]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/dale-steyn-emotional-reaction-after-south-africa-s-wtc-final-win/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/dale-steyn-emotional-reaction-after-south-africa-s-wtc-final-win/ Mon, 16 Jun 2025 09:49:25 GMT

Legendary South African fast bowler Dale Steyn was visibly emotional after witnessing his country secure their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) title. South Africa defeated Australia by five wickets in a historic final at Lord’s on Saturday, ending a 27-year-long drought for an ICC trophy. The last time South Africa won an ICC tournament was the KnockOut Trophy in 1998—Steyn was just a teenager back then, dreaming of a moment like this.

Steyn, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers in the game, played 93 Tests, 125 ODIs, and 47 T20Is for South Africa but was never able to lift an ICC trophy himself. Perhaps the most painful memory of his career came in the 2015 ODI World Cup semi-final against New Zealand. On Saturday, though, those years of heartbreak turned into joy as Temba Bavuma’s men chased down 282 runs to secure the elusive title at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.

Speaking to Star Sports after the win, Steyn struggled to hold back his tears. “What do you do? what do you say? It's incredible. I'm sitting at home, I've got my cap here, and I'm extremely proud. I mean, what do you do? I'll take my son for a walk, and life will carry on,” he said, showing his Test cap while his voice cracked with emotion. The moment quickly went viral on social media, capturing the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.

A Triumph for the Ages

South Africa’s victory was largely built on Aiden Markram’s superb 136 and skipper Temba Bavuma’s composed 66, ensuring the Proteas had their moment of glory on the world stage. The team’s clinical execution and resilience throughout the match drew praise from all corners.

Watch the video here

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“I felt like the support at Lord's—especially from the English fans—was in South Africa's favor too. Maybe it had a little to do with the Ashes rivalry, but that backing helped. This was a massive game, and the team played incredibly well. It was a perfectly structured Test match—when it mattered, the biggest names stood up,” Steyn said. “KG Rabada with the wickets, Pat Cummins delivering too, Mitchell Starc with wickets and runs, Aiden Markram contributing late, and Temba Bavuma steering the side home. It was a fantastic final. I'm just thrilled for South Africa—they've finally won a trophy they've been chasing for a long time.

 
 
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