Australia will take on South Africa in the third World Test Championship (WTC) final, scheduled to be played at Lord’s from June 11 to 15. This marks the first WTC final without India, as Australia clinched their spot with a 3-1 series victory in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Despite two remaining matches in the current cycle against Sri Lanka, Australia’s place in the final is secure. Even a 0-2 defeat in Sri Lanka would leave them with 57.02 percentage points, ahead of India (50%) and Sri Lanka’s maximum possible (53.85%). South Africa secured their final spot earlier, thanks to series victories against West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, along with a draw against India.
South Africa’s captain, Temba Bavuma, lauded his team’s collective effort. "This achievement is the result of everyone stepping up when needed. Playing the WTC final at Lord’s is a dream for any cricketer," he said.
Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, expressed pride in securing the WTC final berth alongside retaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. "It’s an amazing feeling. The WTC is a tournament we value highly, and we’re excited to defend the title. Playing consistently across conditions is a true test, and we’re ready for the challenge."
India, who lost their first home Test series since 2012 with a 3-0 defeat to New Zealand earlier in the cycle, needed to win in Sydney to remain in contention. This marks the first time India has missed the WTC final, after being runners-up in the previous two editions.
Australia and South Africa will now aim to add the prestigious WTC title to their cricketing achievements in what promises to be a thrilling contest at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Updated on 6th January, 2025 by MyFortune11 Team.