The cricket world erupted in a chorus of celebration as South Africa clinched the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) title on June 14, 2025, defeating defending champions Australia at Lord's. The victory, achieved by five wickets, ended a 27-year drought for the Proteas, who last tasted major ICC trophy success in 1998. Among the many congratulatory messages that poured in, one stood out for its poignant encapsulation of the match's drama and the significance of the win: Sachin Tendulkar's heartfelt reaction.
"Test cricket continues to weave its magic," Tendulkar wrote on social media platform X. He lauded the South African team, noting, "In a final where every session had its own story, @ProteasMenCSA found calm in the storm. Markram's composure and Bavuma's grit under pressure stood tall in the fourth innings. A century that will be remembered, a partnership that turned hope into history. Congratulations to South Africa on becoming World Test Champions!"
Tendulkar's words perfectly captured the essence of a captivating final. South Africa, resuming Day Four at 213/2 and needing just 69 more runs, faced early setbacks with the quick dismissals of captain Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs. However, Aiden Markram, who was eventually named Player of the Match, held firm, displaying remarkable composure to guide his team to victory. Markram's magnificent century (136) and his crucial partnership with Bavuma (66) were indeed the cornerstones of South Africa's successful chase of 282. Their 147-run stand not only steadied the ship but also instilled belief in the South African camp and fans alike.
The win was not just about individual brilliance; it was a testament to South Africa's resilience and character as a team. As Yuvraj Singh pointed out, this victory showcased that there is no greater measure of resilience and character than Test cricket. The team had been criticised before the final for their supposedly easier road to the final. However, they proved their mettle with eight straight Test wins.
Other cricket legends also joined in celebrating South Africa's historic win. AB de Villiers, a former South African captain, praised the team's courage and determination. Herschelle Gibbs acknowledged the team's perfect execution from the toss, while Kumar Sangakkara highlighted Markram's masterful century.
South Africa's victory was a moment of immense pride and joy for the nation. Keshav Maharaj, visibly emotional, said, "We've come a long way as a team, as a country. We always say we want to be good people and play good. We're moving in the right direction as a cricketing nation." He further added, "After 25 years of pain, to finally get over the line is super emotional."
The WTC win marks a significant turning point for South African cricket. It's a triumph that will be remembered for generations to come, a story of hope turned into history, just as Sachin Tendulkar so eloquently put it.
