Day 2 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at Lord's saw Australia surge ahead, but South Africa's Lungi Ngidi insists the match remains "in balance." After a day dominated by bowlers, which witnessed a total of 14 wickets falling, Australia ended with a lead of 218 runs, but with only two wickets in hand.

Australia began the day in a strong position after dismissing South Africa for a meager 138 in their first innings in response to Australia's 212, securing a 74-run lead. Pat Cummins was the star performer, claiming six wickets for 28 runs, reaching his 300th Test wicket in the process. Cummins' impressive spell included a burst of four wickets for just one run, triggering a collapse in the South African batting order. Only David Bedingham (45) and Temba Bavuma (36) offered some resistance, but the rest of the batting line-up failed to make substantial contributions.

However, South Africa fought back with vigour in Australia's second innings. Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi led the charge, causing a dramatic collapse that saw Australia slump to 73 for 7. Rabada finished the day with 3 for 44, while Ngidi took 3 for 35. Wiaan Mulder also chipped in with a crucial wicket, removing Travis Head.

Just when it seemed South Africa would take a significant lead, Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc formed a crucial partnership of 61 runs for the eighth wicket. Carey's aggressive 43 off 50 balls shifted the momentum, frustrating the South African bowlers. Starc remained unbeaten on 16 at the end of the day, ensuring Australia extended their lead beyond 200.

Ngidi, despite Australia's lead, believes South Africa is still in a good position. He acknowledged that Australia bowled well but emphasized that his team stuck to their task. He said the coach had encouraged them to play with conviction, reminding them that "you could be the one to turn the match." Ngidi admitted struggling for rhythm in the first innings but found his groove after tea on Day 2. He said the crowd's support gave him extra energy.

Cummins acknowledged that Australia would have liked more wickets in hand but recognized the runs were becoming increasingly difficult to score. He pointed out the pitch was still offering assistance to the bowlers, with the ball seaming unexpectedly. He praised both teams' disciplined bowling, noting the lack of easy scoring opportunities.

David Bedingham echoed the positive sentiment in the South African camp, expressing excitement about the opportunity to win. He acknowledged the challenging batting conditions due to the quality seamers and tricky pitch, but felt the wicket had slowed down, making it easier to bat in the fourth innings.

The match is intriguingly poised heading into Day 3. Australia will aim to add to their lead, while South Africa will seek to quickly wrap up the innings and begin their chase.