Aiden Markram has cemented his place as a key figure in South African cricket, especially after his match-winning century in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord's. This victory, which saw South Africa clinch their first ICC senior men's tournament since 1998, was significantly shaped by Markram's resilience and skill. His performance in the final, described by Kevin Pietersen as possibly the "best innings any South African batter has ever played in Test match cricket," underscores his importance to the team.

Here's a look at three of his most memorable knocks:

1. WTC Final Century vs. Australia, Lord's, 2025: The Defining Innings

Chasing a target of 282 in the fourth innings of the WTC final, Markram walked in with immense pressure, especially after South Africa's first innings struggles. According to several reports, Markram had a duck in the first innings. The conditions were challenging, but Markram demonstrated remarkable composure. He forged crucial partnerships, first with Wiaan Mulder and then a formidable one with captain Temba Bavuma. His innings of 136, characterized by a blend of caution and aggression, anchored the chase. Markram's ability to negate the threat of Australia's world-class pace attack, including Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins, was particularly impressive.

Markram's concentration and determination were evident throughout his innings. He spent over six hours at the crease, weathering spells of high-quality bowling and maintaining a steady approach. His century was not just a personal milestone, his 8th test century, but also a strategic masterclass that steered South Africa towards a historic victory. Nasser Hussain noted that Markram came to the crease on a pair but returned a national hero. This innings is lauded not only for the runs scored but for the context and pressure under which it was played.

2. 175 vs. Netherlands, Johannesburg, 2023: ODI Dominance

While Markram's recent WTC final heroics highlight his Test capabilities, his ODI record also boasts some remarkable performances. One such innings was his 175 off 126 balls against the Netherlands in Johannesburg. This innings, played on "Pink Day," showcased Markram's aggressive strokeplay and ability to dominate an opposition's bowling attack.

Batting at number 4, Markram unleashed a barrage of boundaries, hitting 17 fours and seven sixes. His innings was a masterclass in accelerating an innings, converting a solid start into a match-winning score. This innings against the Netherlands underscored his versatility as a batsman capable of adapting to different formats and conditions.

3. 106 vs. Sri Lanka, Delhi, 2023: World Cup Blitz

During the 2023 World Cup, Markram's 106 off just 54 balls against Sri Lanka in Delhi was a spectacle of power-hitting. This century was the fastest by a South African batter in World Cup history at the time. Markram's innings was characterized by aggressive intent from the outset. After a relatively slow start, he exploded, reaching his half-century in just 34 balls and his century in 49. His innings included 14 boundaries and three sixes.

Aiden Markram's career has been marked by resilience and adaptability. From leading the South African U-19 team to a World Cup victory in 2014 to becoming a central figure in the senior team, Markram has consistently demonstrated his leadership and batting prowess. His recent WTC final century is a testament to his growth as a player and his ability to perform under pressure. As he continues his career, Markram is poised to achieve even greater heights and further solidify his legacy in South African cricket.