Temba Bavuma Leads South Africa to Historic WTC Triumph, Breaks Records Despite Injury

South African cricket captain Temba Bavuma delivered a performance for the ages in the 2025 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s, guiding the Proteas to a dramatic five-wicket victory over Australia and ending the nation’s 27-year ICC trophy drought.

Bavuma, battling a hamstring injury, anchored South Africa’s chase of 282 with a gritty 66 off 134 balls in the fourth innings, sharing a decisive 147-run partnership with centurion Aiden Markram (136*). Earlier, Bavuma had steadied the ship in the first innings with a resilient 36 off 84 balls, reaching the landmark of 10,000 First-Class runs—an achievement attained in his 176th match and 296th innings. His composed approach under pressure was lauded by teammates and analysts alike.

Since taking over as captain in early 2023, Bavuma has masterminded South Africa’s red-ball resurgence. The WTC final marked his ninth win in just 10 Tests as skipper, making him the first captain in history to win nine Tests without defeat and only the second to remain unbeaten after 10 matches, surpassing a 96-year-old record held by Australia’s Warwick Armstrong. Bavuma’s leadership has been instrumental in South Africa’s rise, with his personal batting form peaking at an average of nearly 57 as captain, including over 900 runs, three centuries, and five fifties.

The final itself was a rollercoaster. Australia set South Africa a challenging target after being bowled out for 212 and 207, with Kagiso Rabada starring with the ball. The Proteas stumbled in their first innings, managing just 138, but rebounded in the fourth innings thanks to Bavuma and Markram’s partnership. Bavuma’s 66, played through visible discomfort, included five boundaries and showcased his trademark patience and determination.

With this victory, South Africa became the third different winner of the WTC, joining New Zealand and Australia in lifting the coveted mace. Bavuma’s achievements—both as a player and leader—have cemented his legacy in South African cricket, ending decades of heartbreak in ICC knockouts and inspiring a new era for the Proteas.