WTC Final 2025: Day 3 of the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 began with a gritty display of lower-order resistance from Australia, stretching their second-innings total and setting South Africa a record 281-run target at Lord’s. On JioStar Cricket Live, former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar and Australian legend Matthew Hayden analysed how the morning session tilted momentum heavily in Australia’s favour.
“Mental Dents in the South African Setup” – Bangar
Sanjay Bangar lauded the defiance shown by Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood, who frustrated South Africa with their disciplined technique and unyielding application:
“Starc and Hazlewood showed immense faith in their defence. They didn’t get rattled by short-pitched bowling from Rabada and instead trusted their methods. The Proteas threw everything at them — around the wicket, over the wicket, varying lengths — but the batters stayed composed,” said Bangar.
“This effort has mentally drained the South African bowlers, especially Rabada, who’s already bowled over 30 overs. Starc’s half-century might just be the most valuable of his Test career. Keeping South Africa on the field longer than expected has created mental dents.”
WTC Final 2025: Bangar on Starc’s Technique: “Played the Ball on Merit”
Delving deeper into Starc’s approach, Bangar emphasized the left-hander’s simplicity and calm under pressure:
“He didn’t overthink. He played with softer hands and didn’t chase anything wide. His technique looked organized and efficient today. South Africa would’ve been comfortable chasing 240–250, but Australia have pushed it to 281, and that psychological edge could be decisive.”
WTC Final 2025: Hayden: “A Critical Wag of the Tail”
Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden echoed Bangar’s praise and called it a courageous effort from the Australian bowlers-turned-batters:
“That was a real wag of the tail. It showed character and fight, especially against a relentless Kagiso Rabada. Rabada has been South Africa’s MVP so far, but even he looked fatigued.”
On South Africa’s chase, Hayden added:
“281 isn’t insurmountable—if the top three stand up. They’ll need to make it count with the new ball while the pitch is still good for batting. It’ll take intent and clarity. They have the chance to chase down a record total and claim the Mace, but it’s going to take something special.”
WTC Final 2025: South Africa’s Task: 281 to Win the WTC Final
With 281 runs required, South Africa now faces the highest-ever successful chase in a WTC Final, against a fired-up Australian bowling unit featuring Cummins, Hazlewood, Starc, and Lyon.
