WTC Final 2025, Day 1 Highlights: South Africa Struggle as Bowlers Shine for Australia

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The first day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia ended with bowlers having the upper hand. Australia finished the day strongly by putting South Africa in deep trouble at 43 for 4 wickets at stumps.

The match is being played at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London, and as expected, the pitch helped the fast bowlers right from the beginning. Cloudy skies and a green surface gave the bowlers a chance to make the ball swing, and they didn’t waste the opportunity.

Australia’s Bowling Attack Dominates

After Australia were bowled out for a modest score of 205 runs, their bowlers came out with fire and focus. The South African batting line-up collapsed under pressure as Australia’s pace attack bowled with precision and pace.

South African batters found it difficult to deal with the movement of the ball. The top four batters were sent back to the pavilion quickly, and the team was left reeling at 43 for 4 by the end of the day.

South Africa’s Bowlers Did Well Too

Earlier in the day, South Africa’s bowlers also made sure they didn’t let Australia post a big total. Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen bowled smartly and took important wickets at regular intervals. At one point, it looked like Australia would go past 250, but South Africa kept coming back with wickets.

Australia’s batting was led by Steve Smith, who tried to hold the innings together, but even he couldn’t convert his start into a big score. The rest of the batters got out playing loose shots or were beaten by excellent deliveries.

Match Situation at the End of Day 1

• Australia 1st Innings: 205 all out

• South Africa 1st Innings: 43/4 at stumps

• Lead for Australia: 162 runs

South Africa will need a strong partnership early on Day 2 to avoid falling too far behind. Their lower-order batters will have to step up if they want to stay in the game. On the other side, Australia will look to continue their momentum and wrap up the South African innings quickly.

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Looking Ahead

With the pitch still offering help to the fast bowlers, Day 2 promises to be just as exciting. The match is evenly balanced, but right now, Australia clearly has the upper hand. South Africa’s chances will depend on how well they bat in the first session tomorrow.

Stay tuned for more updates from this thrilling Test final at Lord’s!