Australia's Steve Smith has lauded Kagiso Rabada's exceptional bowling performance in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord's. Rabada's five-wicket haul on Day 1 played a pivotal role in South Africa dismissing Australia for 212. Smith, who scored a resilient 66 for Australia, acknowledged Rabada's relentless pressure and skill, describing him as a "quality bowler" who is "always at you."
Rabada's figures of 5/51 were instrumental in dismantling the Australian batting lineup. This performance not only helped his team gain an early advantage but also etched his name further in cricket history. With this five-wicket haul, Rabada surpassed Allan Donald to become South Africa's fourth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, now holding 332 wickets from 71 Tests, compared to Donald's 330 in 72 matches.
Smith, during the post-day press conference, highlighted Rabada's ability to consistently challenge batsmen. He noted, "I wouldn't say he doesn't move it around. I think he's got good skills. He can shape the ball away; he can nibble it both ways. Um, he's relentless; he's always at you." Smith's comments underscore the respect Rabada commands among his peers, solidifying his reputation as a world-class bowler.
Rabada's achievement also places him in an elite group of bowlers. He became only the second bowler to take a five-for in a WTC final, following New Zealand's Kyle Jamieson, who achieved the feat against India in the 2021 final. Additionally, he is only the second South African bowler after Jacques Kallis to record a five-wicket haul in a major ICC tournament final.
The South African quick, reflecting on his performance, acknowledged the significance of surpassing Allan Donald in Test wickets, but emphasized his focus on the team's success. Rabada also addressed his recent suspension for recreational drug use, stating that the time away allowed him to reflect and reignite his hunger for the game.
Despite Rabada's stellar performance, South Africa faced a tough fight at the end of Day 1, finishing at 43/4. Mitchell Starc and other Australian pacers struck back, creating a challenging situation for the South African batsmen. The match is finely poised, with both teams having demonstrated their capabilities.
The opening day of the WTC final also saw a rare historical event. For the first time in 145 years of Test cricket in England, both teams' number one batters were dismissed for a duck in the first innings. Usman Khawaja of Australia and Aiden Markram of South Africa were the batsmen in question.
Looking ahead, both teams will aim to capitalize on their strengths. Australia will rely on their experienced batting lineup and potent pace attack to gain the upper hand, while South Africa will depend on Rabada and their other bowlers to continue their impressive form and put pressure on the Australian batsmen.
