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Key Points

Harbhajan Singh believes Australia's familiarity with English conditions gives them an edge over South Africa in the WTC final. He lauded Pat Cummins' leadership, calling him a "special captain" who unites the team. Aakash Chopra echoed the sentiment, labeling Cummins the biggest threat for South Africa. The Proteas, despite their strong form, face a tough challenge against the defending champions.

Key Points: Harbhajan Predicts Australia Will Retain WTC Title Over South Africa

  • Harbhajan highlights Australia's experience in England as decisive
  • Praises Cummins' leadership and match-winning ability
  • South Africa playing first WTC final despite strong recent form
  • Aakash Chopra calls Cummins the biggest threat for Proteas
2 min read

WTC final: Harbhajan backs Australia to retain title, says 'They understand conditions better than SA'

Harbhajan Singh backs Australia in WTC final, citing their experience in English conditions and Cummins' leadership as key advantages.

"Australia will come prepared. They understand these conditions better than South Africa. – Harbhajan Singh"

New Delhi, June 10

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh backed Australia to retain the World Test Championship (WTC) ahead of the final against South Africa at Lord's due to the former's better acquaintance of English conditions.

Pat Cummins-led Australia are eyeing to become the first team to win the WTC twice after previously lifting the mace in 2023, beating India at The Oval in the second edition of the tournament.

On the other hand, Temba Bavuma's South Africa will play their first WTC final after topping the standings on the back of winning seven of their last eight matches. Though this might be their first red-ball summit clash, they have become regulars in ICC knockout matches in recent years.

“Australia will come prepared. They’ve played a lot of cricket in England - Ashes, the last WTC Final - and that experience will count. They understand these conditions better than South Africa. Plus, they’re a champion side. The difference lies in how you handle pressure during big matches, and Aussies are masters at that. That’s why they’ve won more trophies than anyone else," Harbhajan said on JioHotstar and Star Sports network.

The legendary spinner further praised Cummins' leadership qualities which make him a "very special captain" for Australia.

“Cummins is one of those leaders who brings everyone together. More importantly, he's a proven match-winner with great command in the dressing room. When your team respects and rallies behind you, you win more matches. That’s what makes him a very special captain for Australia," the former Indian bowler said.

Former India batter and commentator Aakash Chopra also echoed Harbhajan's views on Cummins and termed him a "biggest threat" for the Proteas.

“Pat Cummins is the biggest threat. His leadership, his bowling when there is a partnership, his batting lower down the order - he contributes across departments. He leads from the front and always keeps the opposition under pressure,” he said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Bhajji makes a valid point about Aussies' experience in English conditions. But don't count out SA - they've been consistent performers. As an Indian fan, I just hope the match is competitive unlike our one-sided loss last year! 🇮🇳🏏
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Priya M.
Cummins is indeed a fantastic leader, but I wish our Indian commentators would show the same enthusiasm when talking about Rohit Sharma's captaincy. We tend to over-praise foreign players sometimes. Just saying! 😅
A
Arjun S.
Australia's mental toughness in finals is unmatched. Remember how they handled pressure against us in last WTC? But SA's bowling attack with Rabada and Nortje could surprise them. Exciting match ahead!
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Sneha R.
While I respect Harbhajan's opinion, I feel he's underestimating South Africa. Their recent form has been brilliant! Also, why are we always analyzing other teams when our own team needs to improve its performance in ICC tournaments? 🤔
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Vikram J.
Weather at Lord's could be the real game-changer! Both teams have strong pace attacks, but if conditions favor swing bowling, SA might have an edge. Either way, hoping for a good contest after our team's early exit.
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Neha T.
As much as I admire Cummins, I'm rooting for SA this time. They deserve an ICC trophy after coming so close so many times. Plus, it would be great for cricket if a new team wins the WTC! #Underdogs

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