South Africa and Australia Lock In Squads for WTC Final 2025
The grand stage is set. The World Test Championship Final 2025 will see Australia face South Africa in a highly anticipated clash at Lord’s, London, starting June 11. Both teams have officially confirmed their playing elevens for the summit battle. With world-class talent and strategic calls in both lineups, the match promises to be a classic five-day thriller.
South Africa announce playing XI for historic WTC Final
South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma, has unveiled a well-balanced side ahead of their first-ever WTC Final appearance.The Proteas squad features a mix of experience and youth, offering depth in both batting and bowling departments. Leading the top order is Aiden Markram, with Ryan Rickelton — South Africa’s top scorer in the WTC cycle — partnering him.
Middle-order stability will come from skipper Temba Bavuma, Wiaan Mulder, and rising star Tristan Stubbs. David Bedingham and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne further strengthen the batting.The pace attack will be spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, and Marco Jansen, while Keshav Maharaj provides spin control.
South Africa Playing XI:
- Aiden Markram
- Ryan Rickelton
- Wiaan Mulder
- Temba Bavuma (c)
- Tristan Stubbs
- David Bedingham
- Kyle Verreynne (wk)
- Marco Jansen
- Keshav Maharaj
- Kagiso Rabada
- Lungi Ngidi
Wiaan Mulder trusted at No. 3 in high-stakes encounter
Wiaan Mulder’s promotion to No. 3 is a key tactical decision by the Proteas. While Mulder is still gaining experience in that position, Bavuma expressed full confidence in the young all-rounder. “It’s about backing him. He’s grown a lot in red-ball cricket, and this is a chance to shine,” said Bavuma.
Mulder had previously played at No. 3 during South Africa’s recent red-ball series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. This faith in him underlines South Africa’s long-term commitment to nurturing new leaders in their batting unit.
Australia field title-defending XI for WTC Final
Defending champions Australia, led by Pat Cummins, have also finalized their playing eleven. The lineup reflects consistency, faith in proven performers, and a few strategic tweaks. With David Warner retired, Marnus Labuschagne has moved up to open the innings with Usman Khawaja.
The solid middle order features Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Beau Webster, who keeps his place after impressive performances in recent matches. Alex Carey will handle wicket keeping duties, while the pace trio of Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood completes the bowling attack. Veteran spinner Nathan Lyon adds spin variety to the lineup.
Australia Playing XI:
- Usman Khawaja
- Marnus Labuschagne
- Cameron Green
- Steve Smith
- Travis Head
- Beau Webster
- Alex Carey (wk)
- Pat Cummins (c)
- Mitchell Starc
- Nathan Lyon
- Josh Hazlewood
Key Selection Moves by Pat Cummins
Skipper Cummins explained the rationale behind moving Labuschagne up the order. “It’s just one slot higher than his usual position. He’s done well in English conditions,” said Cummins. Cummins believes the new Dukes ball offers an early scoring window, and Labuschagne’s solid technique could prove handy.
Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood edged out Scott Boland for the third seamer’s spot. Boland, who played a key role in Australia’s 2023 final win, was left out purely due to team balance and current form. “Boland’s been fantastic, but Hazlewood offers the variety we’re looking for at Lord’s,” Cummins added. He also reassured that Boland remains a vital part of Australia’s long-term plans, especially with several Test series lined up over the next two years.
Match Preview: Battle of Pace vs Balance
The WTC Final 2025 will be a test of temperament, fitness, and tactical execution. South Africa’s side looks well-rounded, with attacking quicks and a deep batting lineup. Australia, on the other hand, relies on experience, pace firepower, and match-winners in the middle order. The weather forecast in London looks promising for a full five-day Test, setting up an epic conclusion to the 2023–25 WTC cycle.
What’s at Stake?
The winner will lift the prestigious ICC Test Mace, and more importantly, etch their name in cricket history. Australia aim to defend their crown, while South Africa seek their first-ever World Test Championship title.
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