Wickets Tumble on Day 1: Australia's Pace Attack Follows Rabada's Lead

WTC Final 2025: Rabada, Aussie Quick Bowlers Turn Lord’s Into Graveyard for Batters on Day 1 The World Test Championship final got off to a fiery start at Lord’s, living up to its billing as a battle between two of the most fearsome pace attacks in the game. A total of 14 wickets fell on Day 1, setting the stage for a potentially short, intense contest to decide the new Test champions. 🔥 Rabada’s Masterclass: Kagiso Rabada was the standout performer, claiming 5 for 51—his second five-wicket haul at Lord’s, earning another place on the prestigious Honours Board. His relentless accuracy and seam movement dismantled the Australian batting order, restricting the defending champions to 212 all out. 🏏 Australia’s Fightback: In response, Australia’s seasoned pace trio—Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, and Josh Hazlewood—roared back under the setting sun. With the new ball doing plenty, they reduced South Africa to 43 for 4 by stumps. 🇿🇦 South Africa’s Hope: With top-order wickets tumbling, captain Temba Bavuma was left to marshal a rescue act. South Africa will need a steady hand and big partnerships on Day 2 if they are to overhaul Australia’s total and seize control of the Test. 🧮 Day 1 Summary: Australia 212 all out Kagiso Rabada: 5/51 South Africa 43/4 at stumps Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood: 1 wicket each Match poised delicately, but leaning towards a result inside four days. The first day delivered a gripping contest between bat and ball, and with both sides already reeling, Day 2 could prove decisive in the battle for the World Test Championship mace.