Rabada’s 5-51 Shines in WTC Final 2025 Despite South Africa’s Struggles

Kagiso Rabada’s stellar 5-51 dominated Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at Lord’s on June 11, moving him past Allan Donald to fourth on South Africa’s all-time wicket-takers list. However, a missed review and South Africa’s batting collapse to 43-4 left them trailing Australia’s 212 by 169 runs.

Rabada, 30, delivered a fiery spell, claiming 5-51 to dismantle Australia’s batting. In his first match since a one-month drug-related suspension, his performance surpassed Allan Donald’s 330 Test wickets, placing him behind only Dale Steyn, Shaun Pollock, and Makhaya Ntini. Despite his brilliance, a critical error cost South Africa. Rabada failed to review an lbw appeal against Beau Webster at eight, which replays showed would have hit middle stump. Webster capitalised, scoring 72.

“It’s a bit annoying,” Rabada admitted, noting twelfth man Corbin Bosch’s confirmation that the decision was incorrect.

Five-wicket haul in his first World Test Championship Final 🔥

Watch his incredible spell ➡️ https://t.co/ohqHuu1iQU pic.twitter.com/Lph78tTsYq

— ICC (@ICC) June 12, 2025

The non-reviewed decision, upheld by umpire Richard Illingworth, stunned Australia’s Steve Smith, who said, “It looked pretty good from the other end.” Webster’s 72, alongside Smith’s 66, helped Australia recover from a shaky start, adding 79 for the fifth wicket. South Africa’s failure to capitalise on the early chance shifted momentum, compounded by their batting collapse against Mitchell Starc’s 2-10.

South Africa struggled at 43-4 at stumps, with Australia’s bowlers exploiting Lord’s conditions. Starc’s pace and swing left the Proteas reeling, trailing by 169 runs. Smith praised Webster’s resilience, noting his height and technique suited English conditions. “We’re in a good spot,” Smith said, underlining Australia’s advantage as reigning champions.

Rabada’s Inspiration and Context

Rabada credited advice from former England bowler Stuart Broad for strategic insights on field placings and cloud cover. Reflecting on his milestone, he said, “To be on that list of bowlers is special. I’ve been inspired by those who came before.” Despite personal challenges, his performance underscores his importance to South Africa’s WTC campaign.

South Africa faces an uphill battle to close the deficit, with Australia’s bowling attack poised to press their advantage. Rabada’s leadership with the ball offers hope, but the batting unit must regroup to challenge Australia’s total. The WTC Final, a pinnacle of Test cricket, continues to captivate fans, with Lord’s providing a dramatic stage for this high-stakes clash.