WTC 2025 Final: Predicting South Africa's strongest XI

Officially, South Africa has revealed their 15-man team for the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, which will take place at the storied Lord's Cricket Ground in London from June 11 to 15.

Advertisment

The WTC cycle 2023–25 will come to a close in this eagerly awaited match, which presents South Africa with a fantastic chance to win their first ICC Test Championship. The team's selection underlines the management's aim to preserve a solid core that has performed admirably in recent red-ball assignments while balancing youth and experience. 

After finishing first in the WTC Standings with a point percentage of 69.44, Temba Bavuma leads South Africa's charge in their first-ever WTC Final, which begins at Lord's on June 11 and qualifies them for the Ultimate Test.

With just two additions to the 16-man roster that faced Pakistan, the Proteas have mostly relied on their core group. Top-order batsman Matthew Breetzke has been omitted, while young Kwena Maphaka is left out at the expense of the returning Ngidi.

Advertisment

The middle order will be held by young stars Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, and Bavuma, while the top order batting options are Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, and Aiden Markram. All-rounders Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder can also help with the bat, and Kyle Verreynne will be a formidable presence lower in the order and behind the wickets.

To complete the fast-bowling lineup, Mulder and Jansen will be joined by Corbin Bosch, Dane Paterson, Ngidi, and star pacer Kagiso Rabada. Senuran Muthusamy and Keshav Maharaj will represent the spin resources, providing the Proteas with a wide range of options for the match against the Aussies in London.

South Africa seems to have a well-balanced squad for the finals, while they would have to think and figure out their best Playing XI from this squad. Although Australia start the game as favourites, South Africa will surely give a tough fight.

Advertisment

Possible Playing XI for the game might look like : 

1. Aiden Markram 2. Ryan Rickleton 3. Tony de Zorzi 4. Temba Bavuma 5. Tristan Stubbs 6. Kyle Verreynne 7. Wiaan Mulder 8. Marco Jansen 9. Keshav Maharaj 10. Kagiso Rabada 11. Lungi Ngidi.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky247 India and download the Sky247 app to start betting today!