KEY POINTS
- Dry pitch conditions at Lord’s could favour spin bowlers
- The winners will receive a record $3.6 million prize
- Reserve day set for June 16 to counter potential weather disruptions
ISLAMABAD: Australia and South Africa will meet in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s Cricket Ground, London, from 11 to 15 June.
This marks the first time South Africa will compete in a WTC Final, while Australia returns as the defending champions, having secured the title in 2023 by defeating India at The Oval.
Pitch Conditions Favouring Spin
Ahead of the match, Australian star batter Steve Smith provided insights into the pitch conditions at Lord’s.
He noted that the surface appears drier than usual, which could significantly influence the game’s dynamics. “I think spin will play a big part, particularly as the game wears on,” Smith remarked.
This development is particularly advantageous for Australia’s seasoned off-spinner Nathan Lyon, who has a formidable record against South Africa, boasting 56 wickets in 14 Test matches.
The dry conditions, coupled with limited early-season rain, suggest that the pitch may deteriorate over the five days, creating opportunities for spinners to exploit the surface.
Smith emphasised the importance of adaptability, stating, “The reports, we only came here a week ago. So, it’s pretty dry to start the season over here.”
He also highlighted the unique slope of the Lord’s pitch, which can affect ball behaviour, making it crucial for players to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Team Preparations and Key Players
Australia’s squad features a blend of seasoned players and emerging talents. Pat Cummins leads the team, supported by key figures such as Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon.
The batting lineup includes Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Travis Head, and the promising 19-year-old Sam Konstas, who is expected to partner Khawaja at the top of the order.
Cameron Green’s potential return from injury adds depth to the middle order.
South Africa enters the final with a squad eager to make history. Captain Temba Bavuma leads a team that includes Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, and Keshav Maharaj.
Rabada’s return from suspension adds strength to the pace attack, while Maharaj’s spin bowling could prove pivotal as the match progresses.
The team’s motivation is further fuelled by a desire to honour the legacy of past cricketing legends, as expressed by Maharaj.
Prize Money and Reserve Day
The stakes are high, with the winning team set to receive a substantial prize. The 2025 WTC Final boasts a prize pool of $3.6 million for the winners, more than double the amount from previous editions, while the runners-up will take home $2.1 million.
In the event of a drawn or tied match, the reserve day on June 16 will be utilized to ensure a decisive outcome.
This provision aims to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions, which have previously affected play in past finals.
Weather Forecast
The weather forecast for the final is promising, with London expected to experience mostly sunny conditions throughout the first three days and the fifth day of the match.
However, spotty showers are anticipated on the fourth day, June 12.
The reserve day, should it come into play, is also expected to have clear weather, minimising the chances of weather-related interruptions.
As the countdown to the 2025 WTC Final continues, anticipation builds for what promises to be an exhilarating contest between two of the world’s top cricketing nations.
With favourable conditions at Lord’s, both teams are poised to showcase their skills and determination in pursuit of the prestigious Test Championship Mace.
Cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await the commencement of the Ultimate Test on June 11.
Australia squad
Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (capt), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon, Matt Kuhnemann. Travelling reserve: Brendan Doggett
South Africa squad
Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram, Temba Bavuma (capt), David Bedingham, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Dane Paterson, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy
