South Africa Playing XI WTC Final 2025 – Bavuma Leads Confident Lineup

South Africa Confirm Playing XI for WTC Final 2025

Temba Bavuma Unveils Proteas Playing XI for WTC Final 2025

In what promises to be a monumental occasion for South African cricket, Temba Bavuma has revealed the official South Africa playing XI for the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 against Australia. Set to commence at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground on June 11, this marks South Africa’s first appearance in a WTC Final – a reflection of the team's sustained brilliance during the 2023-25 cycle.

Speaking to the media ahead of the Ultimate Test, Bavuma shared the final lineup, which blends experienced campaigners with emerging talent – all poised to challenge the defending champions in one of the most prestigious contests in modern Test cricket.

Ryan Rickelton Headlines Batting Unit for the WTC Final 2025

The biggest talking point from the Proteas squad has been the rise of Ryan Rickelton, who has not only earned a place in the XI but has been entrusted with a key top-order role. With the most runs for South Africa in the WTC 2023-25 cycle, Rickelton’s consistency and technique have become invaluable assets for the team. Partnering him at the top will be Aiden Markram, a senior batter who has found a new lease on life in the red-ball format over the last year.

Markram’s attacking instincts, balanced with Rickelton’s calm temperament, gives the Proteas a solid foundation against Australia’s lethal pace attack. Both batters have shown encouraging form leading up to this final, and their start could be crucial on a pitch like Lord’s that tends to favor early movement.

Wiaan Mulder Trusted at No.3

In a move that reflects South Africa’s long-term vision, Wiaan Mulder has been retained at No.3 – a position he has recently adapted to with confidence. Captain Bavuma expressed full faith in Mulder’s progression in the red-ball format, highlighting his growth in the last two years and the belief the squad places in him.

“He’s still young in that role,” Bavuma remarked. “But he has the temperament and the skill. This is about giving him a long rope and letting him grow under pressure situations.”

Mulder’s all-round capabilities also provide balance, as he can contribute a few overs with the ball, adding flexibility to the Proteas’ bowling plan.

Bavuma, Stubbs and Bedingham Strengthen the Middle Order

Skipper Temba Bavuma, South Africa’s second-highest run-scorer during the current WTC cycle, will bat in the middle order, joined by the dynamic Tristan Stubbs and the composed David Bedingham. Bavuma’s leadership and gritty knocks have been vital to South Africa’s resurgence, and he will once again be tasked with anchoring the innings.

Stubbs, known for his natural flair, will be keen to translate his white-ball success into red-ball impact. Bedingham, meanwhile, has built a solid first-class reputation in both domestic and county circuits, and his technique against pace makes him an important cog in the lineup.

Kyle Verreynne Returns as Wicketkeeper

After a brief absence, Kyle Verreynne reclaims the wicketkeeping duties, offering not just reliable glovework but also the ability to score quick runs down the order. Verreynne’s return adds much-needed experience and depth, especially in counter-attacking lower-order scenarios – a factor that could be decisive against Australia’s aggressive bowling.

Rabada-Jansen-Ngidi Form Lethal Pace Trio

Kagiso Rabada, the spearhead of South Africa’s pace attack, is back to full fitness and will lead the charge alongside Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi. Rabada’s record at Lord’s is exceptional, and his battle with Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne could define early momentum. Jansen’s left-arm angle and natural bounce provide variety, while Ngidi was selected over the in-form Dane Paterson.

Bavuma explained the Ngidi vs. Paterson dilemma in detail: “Patto has been excellent, no question. But tactically, we felt Lungi's extra pace and bounce would complement the rest of the attack better, especially here in England.”

This trio is supported by Mulder and, potentially, by spin if conditions demand a shift.

Maharaj the Lone Spinner

The spin department is led by Keshav Maharaj, South Africa’s go-to spinner across all formats. Maharaj’s control, especially in the fourth innings, makes him indispensable. Despite English conditions not always being spin-friendly, Lord’s traditionally offers some purchase for quality spin bowlers later in the match – something Maharaj will look to exploit.

Lord’s Awaits the Ultimate Test

South Africa’s journey to the WTC Final 2025 has been remarkable. Topping the standings over Australia, England, and India, the Proteas have shown resilience, discipline, and adaptability. Now, with a bold yet balanced South Africa playing XI, Bavuma’s men are ready to take on the world’s best at the Home of Cricket.

It is not just about winning a trophy for South Africa – it’s about redefining an era of Test cricket and proving that the Proteas can thrive in the most high-pressure, elite settings.

Full South Africa Playing XI for WTC Final 2025

1. Aiden Markram

2. Ryan Rickelton

3. Wiaan Mulder

4. Temba Bavuma (c)

5. Tristan Stubbs

6. David Bedingham

7. Kyle Verreynne (wk)

8. Marco Jansen

9. Keshav Maharaj

10. Kagiso Rabada

11. Lungi Ngidi