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Key Points

South Africa have named Wiaan Mulder at No 3 for their historic WTC final against Australia at Lord's. Captain Temba Bavuma expressed full confidence in the young all-rounder after his recent Test performances. The Proteas boast a strong batting lineup led by WTC top scorer Ryan Rickelton and a potent pace attack featuring Rabada and Ngidi. This marks South Africa's first appearance in the championship decider against the defending title holders.

Key Points: Wiaan Mulder at No 3 as South Africa name WTC final XI vs Australia

  • Proteas pick Mulder at No 3 after his recent Test performances
  • Ryan Rickelton leads batting as WTC top scorer
  • Rabada-Jansen-Ngidi form pace trio with Maharaj as spinner
  • SA make first WTC final appearance against defending champs
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WTC final: Wiaan Mulder to continue at No. 3 as SA announce playing XI

Captain Temba Bavuma backs Wiaan Mulder at No 3 as Proteas reveal strong playing XI for WTC final against Australia at Lord's

"It's about giving him confidence and allowing him to do what he does best - Temba Bavuma on Wiaan Mulder"

London, June 10

As anticipation builds for the highly-awaited clash between South Africa and Australia in the ICC World Test Championship Final, captain Temba Bavuma has unveiled a formidable playing XI.

The match, set to begin on June 11 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground, marks South Africa's first appearance in the WTC Final, and they are ready to make a statement against the defending champions.

At the forefront of South Africa’s batting lineup is Ryan Rickelton, who has emerged as the team's top scorer during the WTC 2023/25 cycle. He will be joined by Bavuma himself, Aiden Markram, and the promising young talent Tristan Stubbs.

One of the more intriguing decisions made by Bavuma is to continue with Wiaan Mulder at the crucial No.3 position. This choice comes after Mulder's recent performances in Tests against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, where he demonstrated his potential.

Bavuma expressed his confidence in Mulder, stating, "It's about giving him a lot more confidence, keep backing him and just allowing him to do what he does best." The captain emphasised the importance of supporting the young batter in high-pressure situations, highlighting the camaraderie within the team.

On the bowling front, South Africa boasts a potent attack led by the experienced Kagiso Rabada, alongside Marco Jansen and the tall, pacey Lungi Ngidi. Keshav Maharaj stands as the sole full-time spinner, bringing his expertise to the mix.

While Dane Paterson had shown remarkable form in the preceding series against Pakistan, Bavuma explained the tactical reasoning behind selecting Ngidi, citing his experience and superior record as key factors. “Lungi also has a better record, not taking away anything from Patto,” Bavuma noted, indicating the careful consideration behind their final selection.

The Proteas earned their place in the Ultimate Test by topping the ICC World Test Championship 2023/25 standings.

South Africa playing XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verrynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Exciting to see SA in WTC final after their strong performance! Mulder at No.3 is a bold move - hope it pays off. As an Indian fan, I'll be watching this closely before our team hopefully makes it next cycle. Rabada vs Aussie batters will be 🔥
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Priya M.
Why only one spinner? Lord's pitch might assist spin later in the game. SA could regret not playing Shamsi alongside Maharaj. Otherwise strong team though - Rickelton has been in great form!
A
Arjun S.
As someone who wakes up at 3 AM to watch Test cricket, this is the match I've been waiting for! Jai cricket! 🇮🇳 Hope it's a close contest - want to see Rabada's fiery spells and how young Stubbs handles pressure.
S
Sneha R.
Interesting team selection. I think Ngidi over Paterson is the right call - need that extra pace against Australia. But I worry about their middle order if early wickets fall. Hope they've prepared well for the English conditions!
V
Vikram J.
Good to see test cricket getting this importance with WTC final. Though as an Indian, slightly disappointed we're not there this time. SA has picked a balanced side - their pace attack could trouble Australia if conditions favor swing.
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Neha P.
Bavuma's captaincy will be tested here! Backing Mulder shows faith in youth, but WTC final is different pressure. Hope they've learned from how India collapsed in previous finals. Cricket needs new champions - go Proteas! 🤞

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