Australia and South Africa are preparing to face off in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final, commencing on Wednesday (June 11), 2025, at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. The highly anticipated showdown is going to be a spectacle, with both teams bringing formidable lineups and an ambition to assert early dominance.

Australia head into the WTC final as the defending champions, having secured the title in the previous cycle, beating India in the final in 2023. Their road to the final this time has been marked by blistering performances, including a notable 3-1 series victory over India. Pat Cummins will lead the Australian outfit that boasts the likes of seasoned campaigners – Travis Head, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc.

South Africa, on the other hand, are set to make their maiden appearance in a WTC final. Their qualification has been a testament to their determination and tenacity, overcoming various challenges to reach this stage. They are in hot form, riding high on seven consecutive victories in Tests against West Indies, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan. South Africa’s batting attack will be led by skipper Temba Bavuma, featuring the likes of Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs and Bedingham. And Kagiso Rabada will lead the side’s bowling attack alongside Dane Paterson and Lungi Ngidi. 

Going into the final, both teams will be keen to capitalise early on, aiming to remain on top throughout the game. Australia's experience in high-pressure finals could give them an edge, but South Africa’s hunger and resolve to win their maiden WTC title make them challenging opponents. 

(Australia vs South Africa head-to-head Tests)

Matches - 101

AUS won - 54

SA won - 26

Tied - 21

Australia probable XI: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Alex Carey (wk), Beau Webster, Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood/Scott Boland, Nathan Lyon

South Africa probable XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.