Australia gained the upper hand in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa at Lord’s, closing day two at 144-8 in their second innings with a 218-run lead, following another day of frequent wicket falls on Thursday.
Australia hold upper hand in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s after a thrilling second day. They finished their second innings at 144-8, holding a 218-run lead over South Africa. The defending champions look set to push for a strong finish in this gripping match.
Wickets fell frequently as bowlers dominated the day. Fourteen wickets fell on the second day, adding intensity and unpredictability to the match. Alex Carey shined with a late burst of runs, aiding Australia in increasing their lead after South Africa’s bowling nearly ended their innings quickly.
Captain Pat Cummins led Australia’s bowling attack, taking six wickets. He tore through South Africa’s batting lineup, limiting them to just 138 runs in response to Australia’s first innings score of 212. This gave Australia a crucial 74-run lead after the first innings.
South Africa began the day at 43-4 but fought back. Temba Bavuma and David Bedingham added 64 runs for the fifth wicket. Bavuma was the only wicket to fall before lunch when Marnus Labuschagne caught him off Cummins for 36.
After lunch, Cummins took control and struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Kyle Verreynne and Marco Jansen. Next, he dismissed Bedingham, South Africa’s highest scorer with 45, caught behind by wicketkeeper Carey. After Keshav Maharaj was run out, Kagiso Rabada was caught by Beau Webster, securing Cummins’ 300th Test wicket.
Australia’s Second Innings
Australia started their second innings strongly, scoring seven runs off the first over. However, Rabada fought back with two wickets before tea, removing Usman Khawaja and Cameron Green cheaply. After tea, the South African bowlers kept up the pressure.
Marnus Labuschagne fell for 22, followed by Steve Smith and Beau Webster, both trapped leg before wicket by Lungi Ngidi. Wiaan Mulder bowled Travis Head, and Ngidi then dismissed Cummins, leaving Australia struggling at 73-7.
Carey resisted well, scoring a quick 43 runs. He turned the tide briefly before Rabada dismissed him lbw just before stumps. Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon will resume batting on Day 3, aiming to add crucial runs to Australia’s total.
Overall, Australia hold upper hand thanks to their bowling attack. The match remains closely fought, but the defending champions have gained an important advantage heading into the final day.
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