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Defending champions Australia take on South Africa in the final of the ICC World Test Championship.
Australia qualified after finishing second in the WTC standings. (AP Photo)
Reigning champions Australia will face South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s, starting on Wednesday.
Here are three key contests that could shape the outcome of this significant game:
Challenges Ahead for Top-Order Batsmen
Batsmen from both teams will face a stern test against high-quality fast bowlers. Australia’s captain, Pat Cummins, is on the verge of reaching 300 Test wickets, with 294 wickets in 67 matches at an average of just 22. He will be joined by left-arm quick Mitchell Starc, who has 382 Test wickets at 27.
Australia’s main decision will be whether to recall the experienced Josh Hazlewood, who has struggled with injuries, or opt for Scott Boland. They faced a similar choice two years ago when Boland was picked over Hazlewood for the successful WTC final against India.
Regardless of Australia’s decision, South African openers Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton will have a tough task ahead as they aim to build a solid foundation. South Africa coach Shukri Conrad mentioned: “I think there’s a quiet confidence among the batting group… While there might not be superstar names among them, I think as a collective we’re pretty confident.”
Australia has had difficulties filling the gap at the top of their order since David Warner’s retirement 17 months ago. Four batsmen have attempted to partner Usman Khawaja, with Marnus Labuschagne expected to be the fifth if he plays his first Test at the top of the order this week.
Kagiso Rabada, returning from a one-month ban for recreational drug use, will lead South Africa’s attack, aiming to add to his impressive Test record of 327 wickets at 22 each, with the support of the formidable Marco Jansen.
Will Spin Play a Key Role?
Spin bowling might prove crucial on a drier pitch that offers turn. Australia’s Nathan Lyon has established himself as an outstanding off-spinner, with 553 Test wickets at an average of just over
South African left-armer Keshav Maharaj, who is just two wickets shy of 200 Test wickets, should not be underestimated.
Both Cummins and South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma will want their spinners to control the game to avoid overbowling their fast bowlers, as well as to take wickets. Australia’s star batsman Steve Smith noted: “I think spin will play a big part, particularly as the game wears on. It does look like quite a dry surface and I think the footmarks will definitely come into play as the game wears on.”
Wicketkeepers to Set the Tone
Lord’s can be challenging for overseas wicketkeepers due to the significant swing after the ball pitches. Standing further back to counter the swing increases the risk of edges not carrying to the slip cordon.
These technical challenges were the least of Alex Carey’s concerns two years ago when his controversial stumping of England’s Jonny Bairstow led to a major row between Australian players and Marylebone Cricket Club members. Carey, who scored his maiden Test hundred against South Africa in December 2022, has been a consistent performer with both bat and gloves.
Similarly, South Africa’s Kyle Verreynne has already scored four hundreds in 24 Tests and has 77 dismissals to his name.
With AFP Inputs
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses, features, live scores, results, stats and everything that’s cricket from all over the globe. Follow @cricketnext
A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses, features, live scores, results, stats and everything that’s cricket from all over the globe. Follow @cricketnext
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