South Africa scripted a historic victory at Lord’s on Sunday, defeating Australia in the World Test Championship Final to win their first ICC title in 27 years. Chasing a testing target of 282, the Proteas pulled off one of the most memorable wins in their cricketing history. Aiden Markram stood tall with a brilliant unbeaten century, anchoring the innings as wickets tumbled around him. His composed knock under pressure helped South Africa cross the finish line with five wickets in hand, sparking emotional celebrations across the squad and back home.

The path to glory, however, was anything but smooth. After being bowled out for just 138 in their first innings, South Africa looked to be in serious trouble. But they stormed back into the contest thanks to a sensational bowling performance by Kagiso Rabada, who tore through the Australian lineup to claim five crucial wickets. Australia’s second-innings total of 207 left South Africa needing 282 for victory, a challenging total at a venue where fourth-innings chases are rarely successful. Markram, alongside skipper Temba Bavuma, built a steady 143-run stand that laid the foundation for the comeback.

Day 4 saw moments of tension as Australia struck early blows, removing Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs to raise hopes of a turnaround. But Markram’s cool head and Kyle Verreynne’s handy support ensured there were no more hiccups. Verreynne’s boundary to seal the win was followed by wild celebrations, as South Africa finally ended their ICC drought. The win was especially significant under Temba Bavuma’s leadership South Africa’s first Black Test captain marking not just a sporting triumph, but a moment of deep cultural and national pride. The victory silenced critics and rewrote the narrative of South Africa’s ICC heartbreaks.