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Key Points

Beau Webster played a pivotal counter-attacking knock to rescue Australia from early trouble in the WTC final. His 79-run partnership with Steve Smith steadied the innings after South Africa reduced them to 67/4. Webster credited his county cricket experience for handling the tough conditions against Rabada and Jansen. Australia's bowlers then struck back late, leaving South Africa struggling at 43/4 by stumps.

Key Points: Beau Webster Steve Smith Rescue Australia in WTC Final Against South Africa

  • Webster scores crucial 72 off 92 balls under pressure
  • 79-run stand with Smith shifts momentum
  • Australia bowlers strike back late to leave SA 43/4
  • Lord's slope and swing challenge batters
2 min read

Webster reflects on gritty knock under pressure as Australia fight back in WTC final

Webster's gritty 72 and key partnership with Smith help Australia recover from 67/4 against South Africa in the WTC final at Lord's.

"Had a bit of luck no doubt in the first 20-30 balls. Felt they came really hard at us. - Beau Webster"

London, June 12

Beau Webster played a crucial counter-attacking innings under pressure to help Australia recover from early trouble on Day 1 of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final 2025 against South Africa at Lord's. Walking in with his team in a precarious position at 67/4, Webster showcased composure and intent, scoring a vital 72 off 92 balls, an innings laced with 11 boundaries.

His 79-run partnership with veteran Steve Smith (66) turned the momentum in Australia's favour after a dominant first session by the Proteas. Webster's positive approach and ability to soak up pressure were instrumental in guiding Australia to a respectable first-innings total of 212.

Speaking after the day's play, Webster acknowledged the intensity of the challenge posed by South Africa's bowlers.

"Had a bit of luck no doubt in the first 20-30 balls. Felt they came really hard at us. Managed to get through that period and got a total on the board," he said

Webster also credited his experience playing in English condition.

"I've played a little bit over here in County cricket, different level obviously. With Rabada (Kagiso) and Jansen (Marco) coming in here, it was very tough. Just stuck to my gameplan which has worked for me the last 3-4 years. I'd be angry if I went away from it," he noted.

"Obviously some minor adjustments here and there with the conditions and the slope," he added.

Commenting on the pitch and the challenges it presents, he added, "There's plenty there. We saw in the last session the ball is still nibbling around. Starcy (Mitchell Starc) had it on a string. The ball nipping up the slope is the tricky one. The delivery that bowled Stubbsy (Tristan Stubbs) obviously nipped up the slope. When it's doing that, it's tricky for the batter."

Webster also praised the Australian bowling unit for their strong comeback in the final session.

"Our bowling attack's been so strong over a number of years. We know if we don't get it done with the bat, the big guys can certainly get it done with the ball," he said.

By stumps, Australia had turned the tide, reducing South Africa to 43/4, still trailing by 169 runs.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
What a gritty innings by Webster! 👏 This is why Test cricket remains the ultimate challenge. As an Indian fan, I wish our middle order showed this kind of resilience abroad. Hope BCCI takes notes from such performances!
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Priya M.
Interesting match so far! Though honestly, I'm more excited for India's upcoming series against Australia later this year. Hope our boys are watching this WTC final closely to understand Aussie strategies.
A
Arjun S.
Webster's county experience showing its value here. This is exactly why we need to send more Indian players to county cricket - not just IPL stars but upcoming Test specialists too. #GrindMatters
S
Sanjana R.
While Webster played well, I think the real hero was Australia's bowling attack. Starc & Co. showing why they're still the best in business. India needs to develop such lethal fast bowlers who can perform consistently overseas.
V
Vikram J.
Good contest between bat and ball! But honestly, Test matches should have more Indian representation in these global finals. The WTC format needs tweaking - maybe include more teams in the final?
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Neha P.
The way Webster handled pressure reminds me of Rahane's innings at Lord's in 2014. These overseas knocks separate good players from great ones. Hope our young batters are learning! 🇮🇳 #TestCricketForever

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