The Proteas will aim to win their first-ever ICC World Test Championship when they face Australia in the final at Lord’s on Wednesday.
The Australians are the current holders of the WTC title, having won it in 2023. Meanwhile, South Africa is competing in their final WTC after underachieving in previous editions. However, with Shukri Conrad having revitalized the team over the past two years, there is a renewed sense of belief among Proteas fans.
What the Proteas Need to Do to Win the WTC FINAL
If Temba Bavuma wins the toss, the best decision would be to bat first. Batting first in a final can be nerve-wracking, but against a formidable Australian side, the Proteas need to have confidence in themselves. The main challenge will be the new ball, especially in the hands of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood. If the Proteas can reach lunch with only a wicket or two down, they can take control of the innings, especially with Bavuma at the crease. A first-innings lead of 350 runs or more could very well secure them the final.
Bowling Department
For the Proteas to win the WTC final, their bowling must be sharp. South Africa’s bowling attack has been a significant strength for decades, and with a fragile batting lineup, the bowlers will need to work tirelessly. Kagiso Rabada will lead the attack, with Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi expected to provide support.
Possible Proteas Lineup for the Final
Ryan Rickelton should open alongside Aiden Markram, with Tristan Stubbs coming in at third. Bavuma and David Bedingham should occupy the fourth and fifth spots, while Kyle Verreynne can fill the sixth position. At seven, Wiaan Mulder should be preferred over Corbin Bosch. Marco Jansen and Keshav Maharaj can follow at eight and nine. Kagiso Rabada can bat at ten, but it could be a toss-up between Dane Paterson and Lungi Ngidi for the final spot.
The Proteas need at least ten players who can contribute with the bat in the final, but they also require a strong bowling attack. If Conrad believes the batting lineup is too thin, he may opt to bring in Bosch at nine, which would push Rabada down to eleven. However, this strategy could backfire, considering that Bosch and Mulder have yet to deliver in crucial matches and are unlikely to take five wickets between them.
Can the Proteas beat Australia?
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