Press Article: South Africa Takes Early Control in World Test Championship Final Against Australia
In the riveting World Test Championship final at Lord’s, Australia faced a daunting challenge after being sent in to bat by South Africa, who made a strong start, having the Aussies in trouble at 67-4 at lunch.
Kagiso Rabada set the tone early, delivering a devastating spell that dismissed Usman Khawaja (0) and Cameron Green (4) in quick succession. Marnus Labuschagne looked promising but fell for 17, edging a delivery from Marco Jansen to keeper Kyle Verreynne. Travis Head managed only 11 before he also succumbed, caught off a leg-side delivery, leaving Australia reeling at 67-4.
Steve Smith, the linchpin of Australia’s batting lineup, stood firm, reaching 45 not out before the first break, showing his experience and skill against probing South African fast bowlers. Beau Webster, new to the Test scene, was struggling on 8, finding it difficult to settle against Jansen and Rabada, who continually challenged him outside off-stump.
Post-lunch, Rabada continued to impress, keeping Webster on edge and showcasing South Africa’s aggressive bowling strategy. Australia’s hopes now heavily rest on the shoulders of Smith, who has previously thrived in pressure situations, including scoring a century the last time Australia played at Lord’s.
As the afternoon session unfolds, both teams know the stakes are high, with Australia’s batting lineup required to consolidate and rebuild if they hope to post a competitive total against a dominant South African attack. The weather in London appears favorable, adding an additional layer of intrigue to this high-stakes encounter. The stage is set for a gripping continuation as the World Test Championship decider presses on.
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