WTC Final 2025, Day 2 : Australia VS South Africa

 WTC Final 2025: Australia gets Lead of 218 Runs, After South Africa’s Bowling Blitz

The second day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s was nothing short of a rollercoaster. By stumps, Australia had reached 144/8 in their second innings, extending their overall lead to 218 runs. But the real story was the fierce battle between bat and ball, with both teams refusing to back down.

A Day of Twists and Turns

Australia’s Bowling Masterclass

The day began with Pat Cummins wreaking havoc on South Africa’s batting lineup. The Australian skipper claimed 6/28, dismantling the Proteas for just 138 runs in their first innings. His lethal pace and precision earned him his 300th Test wicket, making him only the eighth Australian bowler to achieve this milestone.

South Africa’s innings crumbled despite a fighting 45 from David Bedingham and 36 from captain Temba Bavuma. Once Cummins broke their partnership, the rest of the batting order collapsed like a house of cards, with the last five wickets falling for just 18 runs.

South Africa Strikes Back

With a 74-run lead, Australia started their second innings confidently. But Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi had other plans. Rabada, who had taken a five-wicket haul in the first innings, struck early, removing Usman Khawaja (6) and Cameron Green (0). Ngidi then dismantled the middle order, dismissing Steve Smith (13), Beau Webster (9), and Pat Cummins (6).

At 73/7, Australia was in deep trouble. But Alex Carey (43) and Mitchell Starc (16*) staged a crucial 61-run partnership for the eighth wicket, pushing Australia’s lead beyond 200. Rabada eventually dismissed Carey just before stumps, but the damage was done.

Key Moments That Defined the Day

Cummins’ 6-Wicket Haul – A captain’s spell that put Australia in control.
 Rabada & Ngidi’s Fiery Spell – South Africa’s pacers kept the match alive.
Carey & Starc’s Rescue Act – Their partnership saved Australia from collapse.

What to Expect on Day 3?

With Australia at 144/8 and a 218-run lead, the match is perfectly balanced. South Africa will aim to wrap up the tail quickly, while Australia will hope Starc and Nathan Lyon add as many runs as possible.

Can South Africa chase down the target?
Or will Australia’s bowlers defend the lead?

One thing is certain—this WTC Final is delivering edge-of-the-seat drama!

Scorecard Summary: WTC Final 2025 (End of Day 2)

Australia 1st Innings – 212 all out

 Webester 72, Steven Smith -66 | *(Rabada 5/51, Maco Jansen 3/49) *

South Africa 1st Innings – 138 all out (Trail by 74 runs)

*(Bedingham 45, Bavuma 36 | Cummins 6/28, Starc 2/41) *

Australia 2nd Innings – 144/8 (Lead by 218 runs)

(Carey 43, Starc 16 | Rabada 3/44, Ngidi 3/35) *

Not Out Batsmen: Mitchell Starc (16), Nathan Lyon (1)

Final Thoughts

The pitch at Lord’s is offering plenty for the bowlers, and with three days left, this Test could end sooner than expected. If Australia sets a target above 250, South Africa’s batting will face a stern test against Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood.

Who will lift the WTC trophy? Stay tuned for Day 3!

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What do you think? Will South Africa stage a comeback, or will Australia dominate? Drop your predictions in the comments!