Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers believes that defeating the formidable Australia in the June 11, 2025 World Test Championship final at Lord’s and claiming the trophy would be nothing short of the “unthinkable.”
Background Details
• Final Context:
• The World Test Championship final begins at Lord’s in four days.
• Australia enters as the reigning champion, having also won the 2021–23 cycle.
• South Africa, making their first appearance in the final, topped the points table with consistently strong performances.
• South Africa’s Trophy Drought:
Since the 1998 ICC KnockOut Trophy, no South African side has lifted a major ICC title. The Proteas have yet to experience a World Cup victory in any format.
• Recent Form:
• South Africa reached the 2022 Test World Cup final, the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final, and the 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final, highlighting their sustained excellence.
• Consecutive wins over top-ranked teams in this championship have only bolstered their confidence.
De Villiers’ Comments
> “South Africa is a well-balanced side, and we are very confident that we can pull off the unthinkable at Lord’s by surprising Australia. They are undoubtedly the clear favourites, which is why I call it the ‘unthinkable.’”
He added that the final represents a historic moment for the nation, with all South Africans backing the team, and stressed, “This time, we want to reach the finish line.”
Analysis
1. Blend of Youth and Experience:
The Proteas’ strength lies in their mix of dynamic youngsters and seasoned veterans. Such a balanced squad can make a huge impact on cricket’s grandest stage at Lord’s.
2. Confidence Versus Reality:
While Australia may appear to have the upper hand based on history and recent form, South Africa’s current momentum and team cohesion give them a genuine chance to deliver an upset.
3. Chance to Rewrite History:
Ending a major title drought since 1998 would create a new chapter in South African cricket lore and restore national pride.