The 2025 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s kicked off with an electrifying Day 1, as South Africa and Australia battled in a bowler-dominated thriller. With 14 wickets falling and pace attacks stealing the show, the stage is set for a gripping Day 2. Here’s a detailed review of Day 1 and a preview of what to expect, perfect for fans engaging through platforms like starexch.

Day 1 Review: Bowlers Rule the Roost

Day 1 at Lord’s was a paradise for bowlers, with South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma opting to bowl first after winning the toss. The decision paid dividends, but Australia fought back late, leaving South Africa at 43/4, trailing Australia’s first innings total of 212 by 169 runs.

Australia’s Innings: Rabada Shines, Smith and Webster Resist

Australia’s rejigged batting lineup saw Marnus Labuschagne open with Usman Khawaja, and Cameron Green at No. 3. Kagiso Rabada’s fiery 5/51 dismantled the top order, dismissing Khawaja for a duck and Green cheaply. Marco Jansen (3/49) removed Labuschagne, leaving Australia at 47/3 before lunch. Steven Smith’s classy 66, overtaking Warren Bardsley as the leading overseas run-scorer at Lord’s, and debutant Beau Webster’s gritty 72 formed a crucial 79-run partnership. Rabada’s post-tea spell triggered a collapse, with Australia losing 9 wickets for 65 runs, bowled out for 212 in 78 overs.

South Africa’s Response: Aussie Pacers Strike Back

South Africa’s reply faltered early, with Mitchell Starc (2/10) dismissing Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton. Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins struck, leaving South Africa 43/4 at stumps, with Temba Bavuma (3*) and David Bedingham (8*) at the crease. Australia’s pacers exploited late swing, restricting South Africa to 19 runs in the first 10 overs.

Key Moments

• Rabada’s Masterclass: Rabada’s 5/51, including two wickets in an over, was a game-changer.
• Smith’s Milestone: Smith’s 66 etched his name in Lord’s history.
• Australia’s Fightback: Starc’s double strike swung momentum.
• Webster’s Grit: Webster’s 72 on debut spared Australia a lower total.

The Pitch and Conditions

The Lord’s pitch offered seam movement and bounce under overcast skies, easing slightly in the afternoon. Late swing under lights kept bowlers in the game. For fans tracking the action, best cricket exchange sites provide a dynamic way to stay engaged with the match’s twists and turns.

Day 2 Preview: A Pivotal Day Awaits

Day 2 promises to shape the WTC Final, with South Africa needing a fightback and Australia aiming to tighten their grip.

South Africa’s Fight for Survival

Temba Bavuma and David Bedingham hold South Africa’s hopes. Bavuma (3*) must lead from the front, while Bedingham (8*), who showed promise late on Day 1, could counter-attack. Contributions from Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen are vital to reach 150-180 and stay competitive. Facing Starc, Cummins, and Hazlewood under brighter conditions will be a stern test.

Key Players to Watch:

• Temba Bavuma: His composure will be crucial.
• David Bedingham: His late boundaries suggest potential for a big score.
• Kagiso Rabada: His bowling could strike early if Australia bat again.

Australia’s Plan to Dominate

Australia will aim to wrap up South Africa’s innings quickly, with Starc’s pace and Hazlewood’s precision leading the charge. Nathan Lyon could exploit early pitch cracks. If South Africa are bowled out for under 150, Australia could build a 200+ lead. In their second innings, Smith and Travis Head will look to capitalize on a flattening pitch.

Key Players to Watch:

• Mitchell Starc: His early wickets set the tone.
• Josh Hazlewood: His accuracy targets the middle order.
• Steven Smith: A second-innings contribution could be decisive.

Tactical Battles

• South Africa’s Batting vs. Australia’s Pace: Can Bavuma and Bedingham survive the new ball?
• Lyon’s Role: With a drying pitch, Lyon could trouble South Africa’s lower order.
• South Africa’s Bowling: Rabada and Jansen must exploit any movement if Australia bat again.

Weather and Pitch Outlook

Clearer skies are forecast for Day 2, potentially reducing seam movement. The pitch may favor batsmen, but cracks could assist spinners like Lyon and Keshav Maharaj by the afternoon.

Prediction for Day 2

South Africa will aim to bat past lunch, with Bavuma and Bedingham targeting a deficit under 100. However, Australia’s pacers could skittle them early. If Australia bat again, Smith and Head may extend the lead. The first session will be critical.

Final Thoughts

Day 1 of the WTC Final 2025 was a Test cricket masterclass, with bowlers dominating. South Africa’s Rabada shone, but Australia’s late strikes give them the edge. Day 2 will test South Africa’s resilience and Australia’s ruthlessness. For fans, platforms like starexch and best cricket exchange sites offer an immersive way to follow the action.