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Key Points

South Africa clinched their first ICC World Test Championship title with a thrilling five-wicket win over Australia at Lord’s. Aiden Markram’s match-winning 136 and Temba Bavuma’s gritty 66 sealed the historic victory. CSA’s Enoch Nkwe praised the team’s resilience, calling it a tribute to past legends. The Proteas will return home as champions, marking a new era in South African cricket.

Key Points: Nkwe Hails Temba Bavuma-Led South Africa as World Test Champions

  • South Africa ends 27-year knockout drought with WTC win
  • Aiden Markram's 136 leads Proteas to victory
  • CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki credits team and past legends
  • Proteas secure eighth straight Test win
2 min read

The next time we see Shukri and his team, we'll welcome them as World Test Champions: Nkwe

Enoch Nkwe praises Proteas' historic WTC win over Australia, calling it a triumph of resilience and legacy.

"The next time we see Shukri and his team, we will welcome them as the ICC World Test Champions! – Enoch Nkwe"

New Delhi, June 15

Enoch Nkwe, the Director of National Teams and High Performance at Cricket South Africa (CSA), lauded the Temba Bavuma-led side for their unwavering commitment in winning the 2025 ICC World Test Championship, saying that they are ready to welcome them home as title winners.

At Lord’s on Saturday, South Africa finally broke a 27-year knockouts hoodoo to secure a championship win with a five-wicket victory over defending champions Australia. After ending day three’s play on 213/2, Aiden Markram, who was 102 not out, went on to make a magnificent 136, as the Proteas completed the chase in 83.4 overs to win the Ultimate Test just before lunch on day four.

“This moment is a reminder that no dream is too distant, no challenge insurmountable and no legacy too heavy to carry forward. I commend the unwavering commitment demonstrated by each player, both on and off the field. Reaching this milestone, coupled with remarkable key performances, will undoubtedly be etched into the history books. The next time we see Shukri and his team, we will welcome them as the ICC World Test Champions!” said Nkwe in a CSA statement on Sunday.

CSA CEO Pholetsi Moseki pointed out that this victory belonged to the team, legends, the people of south Africa and all those inspired to take up the game by this remarkable victory. “I can’t think of a team more deserving of this WTC Mace. This team has displayed remarkable tenacity and strength over the past two years.”

"This occasion holds immense significance in the world of sport and cricket. It is a tribute not only to the current squad, but also to those who paved the way before them," he added.

Markram, who was dismissed for a duck in the first innings, also shared a decisive 147-run stand with skipper Temba Bavuma, who made 66 despite a left hamstring strain. Though South Africa conceded a 74-run first innings lead, they managed to complete the chase and get their eighth straight Test win.

The championship-winning South Africa players and support staff, led by head coach Shukri Conrad, will be returning home on Wednesday and are expected to address a press conference after arriving at the OR Tambo International Airport.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
What a match! 🏏 South Africa truly deserved this win after years of hard work. As an Indian cricket fan, I appreciate good cricket no matter which team plays. Markram's century was pure class! Hope our Indian team learns from their fighting spirit.
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Priya M.
Congratulations to SA! But honestly, I'm a bit disappointed with Australia's performance. They're usually so strong in finals. Anyway, this makes Test cricket more interesting - shows any team can win on their day. Waiting for India to lift the WTC soon! 🇮🇳
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Arjun S.
Bavuma playing through injury shows real leadership. This is what Test cricket is about - grit and determination. Hope our BCCI takes note of how CSA has built this team systematically. Our team has talent but needs this kind of mental toughness in big matches.
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Sanjana T.
So happy for South Africa! They've had so many heartbreaking moments in ICC tournaments. Finally their time has come 💛💙 The partnership between Markram and Bavuma was poetry in motion. Cricket needs more such inspiring stories!
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Vikram J.
While I congratulate SA, I must say the WTC format still needs improvement. One final match after 2 years doesn't seem fair. Should be a 3-match series like in football's Champions League. What if rain had ruined this match? Just my two cents.
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Neha P.
As someone who woke up at 3 AM to watch this match, every minute was worth it! 😴→😃 The way SA turned around after first innings deficit was amazing. Now waiting for India vs SA Test series - that will be fireworks for sure!

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