Markram’s century, Bavuma’s fifty put South Africa on verge of WTC title

Aiden Markram’s brilliant unbeaten century and captain Temba Bavuma’s solid half-century have put South Africa in a commanding position in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord’s.

At the end of Day 3, South Africa were 213 for 2, needing just 69 more runs to win the match and lift the prestigious WTC trophy. Markram remained not out on 102 from 159 balls, hitting 11 boundaries, while Bavuma stood firm with 65 not out from 121 deliveries. Their unbeaten partnership of 143 runs for the third wicket has taken South Africa close to a historic victory.

Chasing a target of 282, South Africa had a shaky start, losing opener Ryan Rickelton for six in the third over, dismissed by Mitchell Starc. Markram and Wiaan Mulder then steadied the innings with a 61-run partnership for the second wicket before Starc struck again, removing Mulder for 27.

After that, Markram joined hands with Bavuma, and the duo batted with patience and confidence to keep Australia’s bowlers at bay. At tea, South Africa were 94 for 2, with Markram on 49 and Bavuma on 11, still needing 188 runs.

Earlier in the day, Australia resumed their second innings at 144 for 8 and were quickly reduced to 148 for 9 when Kagiso Rabada trapped Nathan Lyon lbw. However, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood frustrated the South African bowlers with a vital last-wicket stand, adding over 50 runs and pushing the lead past 280.

Starc played a crucial hand, scoring his 11th Test fifty and ending with a valuable 58. Hazlewood supported him well with 17 runs before Aiden Markram, surprisingly with the ball to wrap up Australia’s innings.

Rabada was the standout bowler again, taking four wickets. Lungi Ngidi claimed three, while Jansen, Mulder, and Markram got one each.

Australia had earlier collapsed from 28 for 2 to 73 for 7 on Day 2 after a fiery spell from South Africa’s pacers. Although Alex Carey (43) and Starc added some late runs, Australia could only manage 212 in their first innings. Beau Webster top-scored with 72, and Steve Smith contributed 66.

In response, South Africa were bowled out for 138 in their first innings, with David Bedingham making 45. Australian captain Pat Cummins was outstanding, taking 6 wickets, while Starc chipped in with two.

With just 69 runs needed and eight wickets in hand, South Africa are now firm favourites to win the WTC final and make history at Lord’s.