Markram’s Masterclass Puts South Africa Within Reach of Historic WTC Title
Aiden Markram rose to the occasion with a sublime unbeaten century, steering South Africa to 213/2 at stumps on Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. With just 69 runs required for a momentous victory over defending champions Australia, South Africa stand on the brink of Test cricket glory.
Chasing a target of 282, the Proteas were jolted early as Mitchell Starc claimed two wickets in a fiery opening spell. However, Markram’s composure and brilliance turned the tide. His elegant 102 off 156 balls* featured masterful strokeplay and steely resolve, marking his eighth Test century in style.
Markram was ably supported by skipper Temba Bavuma, who showed immense grit, battling through a hamstring niggle to contribute a crucial 65 off 121 balls*. The duo’s unbroken 143-run stand for the third wicket has put South Africa on the cusp of one of their greatest-ever Test triumphs.
Australia’s Resistance and South Africa’s Grit
Earlier in the day, Australia resumed their second innings at 144/8 and were eventually bowled out for 207, thanks largely to Mitchell Starc’s counterattacking 58. Starc and Josh Hazlewood stitched a spirited 59-run last-wicket stand, frustrating South Africa’s bowlers and dragging Australia’s lead to a competitive 281.
South Africa’s pace attack, led by Kagiso Rabada (4/59) and Lungi Ngidi (3/38), found limited assistance in the morning session as the Australian tail wagged stubbornly. Rabada ended the innings with a perfect yorker to trap Nathan Lyon, but Starc’s aggressive fifty – his 11th in Tests – ensured a tricky chase for the Proteas.
Turning the Tide
Starc carried his momentum into the bowling department, removing Ryan Rickelton early and later dismissing Wiaan Mulder, who had shown promise. However, dropped catches, including a costly miss by Steve Smith at slip, proved pivotal. Smith left the field nursing a dislocated finger, casting doubt over his availability for the remainder of the match.
Despite the setbacks, Markram played with serene authority, peppering the off-side with fluid drives, late cuts, and punchy flicks. Bavuma, though clearly in discomfort, rotated the strike smartly and unfurled elegant boundaries to keep the scoreboard ticking. As the sun bathed the hallowed turf of Lord’s and the South African crowd roared in unison, Markram reached his century with a graceful flick through mid-wicket off Hazlewood. The celebration was emotional, with his wife Nicole and cricketing legend AB de Villiers applauding from the stands.
Final Day Drama Awaits
Australia now face the daunting task of triggering a collapse on a benign surface. With just two sessions possibly needed for South Africa to seal the deal, Day 4 promises high drama and the possibility of a first-ever WTC title for the Proteas.
Brief Scores:
Australia: 212 & 207 (65 overs)
(Mitchell Starc 58, Alex Carey 43; Kagiso Rabada 4-59, Lungi Ngidi 3-38)
South Africa: 138 & 213/2 (56 overs)
(Aiden Markram 102, Temba Bavuma 65; Mitchell Starc 2-53)
South Africa need 69 more runs to win
