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South Africa have done it at last! They’ve shed the long-standing ‘chokers’ label by defeating Australia by five wickets to clinch their first-ever ICC World Test Championship title. The Proteas have ended a 27-year drought for an ICC title, capping it off in dominant fashion with eight straight Test wins to clinch the WTC trophy.

On Day 4 (Saturday, June 14) of the WTC Final at Lord’s, the Proteas chased down the remaining 69 runs to secure a landmark victory, putting an end to Australia’s reign in ICC finals.

SA end 27-year drought for ICC title

It’s the first time in 15 years that Pat Cummins’ side has faltered on the grand stage of an ICC final, breaking their aura of invincibility. This win not only marks a historic moment for South African cricket but also redefines their legacy in global tournaments.

Day 3 emerged as the most productive day for batters in the match, with just four wickets falling — a major shift from the 14 wickets that tumbled on each of the first two days.

Aiden Markram (136 runs off 207 balls) delivered a masterful century. He was ably supported by Temba Bavuma (66 runs off 134 balls), who fought through a hamstring concern to contribute. Together, the pair forged a 147-run partnership, placing them third on the list of the highest fourth-innings stands by visiting batters at Lord’s.

Kagiso Rabada emerged as South Africa’s bowling hero, dismantling Australia’s celebrated batting order with a match haul of nine wickets — five in the first innings and four in the second.

Australia's dominance in ICC Finals

After their loss to England in the 2010 T20 World Cup final, Australia went on to dominate ICC finals, clinching titles in the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups, the 2021 T20 World Cup, and the 2023 World Test Championship. This golden generation was known for thriving in high-pressure situations and consistently delivering when it mattered most.

However, on a gloomy evening at Lord’s on June 14, their reign was finally halted. South Africa rose to the challenge, breaking Australia’s streak in ICC finals and marking a historic moment in Proteas’ cricket history.