The highly anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia has commenced at Lord's, with South Africa winning the toss and electing to bowl first, citing overcast conditions that they hoped would favor their pace attack.

South Africa's captain, Temba Bavuma, expressed confidence in his team's composition, emphasizing that they had selected the best possible combination for the occasion. In contrast, Australia, the defending champions, are aiming to secure their second consecutive WTC title. Australia, led by Pat Cummins, named an experienced XI, with a notable change seeing Marnus Labuschagne opening the batting alongside Usman Khawaja. Cameron Green returned to bat at No. 3, bolstering the middle order comprising Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Beau Webster. The pace attack is spearheaded by Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, complemented by Nathan Lyon's spin.

South Africa's playing XI includes Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, and Lungi Ngidi. Lungi Ngidi was preferred over Dane Paterson, likely due to his extra pace and height.

The decision to have Labuschagne open the batting was a talking point, with some considering it a gamble due to his recent form. Cameron Green's return to the team was also highly anticipated, adding depth to both the batting and bowling departments.

Early in the first session, Kagiso Rabada made a significant impact, dismissing Usman Khawaja for a duck and Cameron Green in quick succession. Khawaja edged one to David Bedingham at first slip, while Green fell victim to a brilliant low catch by Aiden Markram. Australia found themselves at 16/2 after 7 overs, with Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith at the crease, tasked with steadying the innings. Marco Jansen also bowled a tight spell, maintaining the pressure on the Australian batsmen.

South Africa's coach, Shukri Conrad, emphasized that his team is not burdened by past failures and is determined to carve out its own legacy. Meanwhile, Australia, with a formidable bowling attack and experienced batsmen, are aiming to continue their dominance in world cricket.

This is the first time Lord's is hosting the WTC final.