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June 9, 2025, Proteas gear up for Ultimate Test despite limited red-ball preparation: Starting Wednesday, South Africa will play the defending champions Australia in the ICC World Test Championship Final, hoping to overcome concerns about match practice and create history at Lord's. The Proteas haven't played a red-ball game since January, and the rain largely ruined their one planned warm-up against Zimbabwe.
Despite the preparation setback, opener Aiden Markram believes the team is mentally ready and understands the urgency of starting strong in a one-off final.
"We've gotten used to jumping into short series, which means there's no time to ease into form," Markram explained during a pre-match media briefing. "That mindset of starting sharp should benefit us here as well."
The Proteas earned their spot in the WTC final by stitching together an impressive seven-match unbeaten streak, though they've played far fewer Tests than the Australians over the current cycle. Markram suggested that the infrequency of Test matches has only added to the players' hunger.
"We don't get too many Tests, so each game feels special. The desire to do well is always high when you know chances are limited.”
While South Africa's track record in ICC knockout events has often ended in heartbreak, Markram was quick to draw a line between past disappointments and the current Test squad.
"This group is different. A few of us have been around for those losses, but we've had honest conversations and moved on. Right now, it's about making the most of this fresh opportunity."
Meanwhile, Australia's Josh Hazlewood is pushing to return to the WTC final stage after missing their 2023 title win through injury. The right-arm quick played a pivotal role in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's IPL title triumph last week and says he's in top rhythm.
"Last time, I just missed out, but this year I feel in a much better position physically and skill-wise," Hazlewood noted. "Across formats, my numbers have been strong, and I'm confident heading into the final."
Having come straight from the fast-paced T20 environment, Hazlewood admitted the need to recalibrate his bowling lengths for English conditions.
"In the IPL, I focused on back-of-a-length deliveries during the powerplay, but Test cricket here demands a fuller length to hit the stumps and get movement. That's something I've been working on."
Hazlewood is competing with Scott Boland for the final pace bowling spot in what is expected to be a strong Australian attack led by Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc.
Both sides have unique strengths and tales to share as the clock approaches the highly anticipated WTC final. After years of close calls, South Africa's goal is to turn promise into trophies. It's an opportunity for Australia to maintain their dominance in the red-ball game and defend their title.
Also Check: How and Where to watch Australia vs South Africa online
