WTC Final 2025: South Africa Squad Announced, Stuart Broad Joins As Bowling Consultant

South Africa’s Squad Set for WTC Final 2025: Bavuma Leads, Broad Joins Coaching Setup

South Africa Ready for World Test Championship Final Showdown

As the cricketing world turns its eyes toward Lord’s for the World Test Championship Final 2025, South Africa have officially named their 15-member squad, with Temba Bavuma at the helm and Lungi Ngidi making a long-awaited return. The Proteas are set to face defending champions Australia from June 11 to 15 in what promises to be a fierce battle between two top-class Test outfits.

The squad announcement has not just turned heads due to player inclusions but also because of a surprise addition in the backroom staff—former England pacer Stuart Broad. The legendary fast bowler will join South Africa’s camp as a bowling consultant, offering his invaluable expertise ahead of the clash against a side he has tormented throughout his playing career.

Bavuma to Lead Experienced but Balanced Squad

Temba Bavuma, who has steadily grown into the leadership role, will look to inspire his squad to South Africa’s first-ever WTC title. Bavuma has earned the backing of both selectors and teammates thanks to his calm, strategic approach and ability to marshal his troops under pressure. His own batting form has been solid, and his leadership during South Africa’s home and away series has been commended.

Returning to bolster the bowling attack is Lungi Ngidi, who has recovered from injury and joins a lethal pace unit comprising Kagiso Rabada, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, and Dane Paterson. Ngidi's presence provides a critical edge, especially in English conditions that tend to favour movement and seam.

Keshav Maharaj and Senuran Muthusamy add variety in the spin department, a necessity given the unpredictable nature of Lord’s surfaces in June.

Stuart Broad Joins as Bowling Consultant

In a strategic masterstroke, Cricket South Africa has enlisted Stuart Broad as a bowling consultant specifically for the WTC Final. Broad, who retired from international cricket in 2023, brings a resume that few can rival: 604 Test wickets, including a staggering 153 against Australia—more than any bowler has taken against a single opponent.

Broad’s understanding of the Lord’s pitch, combined with his insights into the psychological battles of an Ashes-like contest, could provide South Africa the tactical edge they need. His presence will also be crucial in working with younger bowlers like Bosch and Jansen, helping them adapt to match pressure in conditions he knows intimately.

This appointment not only symbolizes South Africa’s ambition but also indicates their intent to leave no stone unturned as they aim for a historic WTC triumph.

Preparation in Full Swing with Warm-Up Against Zimbabwe

The Proteas have already landed in the UK and will kick off their preparations with a four-day warm-up match against Zimbabwe at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground from June 4. This fixture is designed to help the team fine-tune combinations, test out players returning from injury, and adjust to local playing conditions.

South Africa's decision to prepare thoroughly ahead of the WTC Final reflects their measured approach. Under head coach Shukri Conrad, the team has become known for its disciplined planning and execution, both on and off the field.

Road to the WTC Final: South Africa’s Resurgence

South Africa’s journey to the WTC Final 2025 has been one of resilience, adaptability, and late momentum. After a 1-1 draw at home against India and a 2-0 loss in New Zealand, many had written off their chances. But the Proteas turned the tide with clinical performances: a narrow series win in the Caribbean and back-to-back whitewashes over Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

Their dramatic win over Pakistan at Centurion, sealed with just two wickets in hand, was arguably the highlight of their campaign—a gritty finish that showcased their fighting spirit and ability to absorb pressure, traits that will be invaluable at Lord’s.

Australia vs South Africa: Battle of Styles and Legacies

Australia, the reigning WTC champions, have had a commanding run in this cycle. A 2-1 win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a clean sweep of Pakistan cemented their position in the final. With Steve Smith, Pat Cummins, and Travis Head in red-hot form, they bring a mix of composure and aggression that has proven tough to match.

But South Africa have an advantage that stats don’t measure: hunger. They’re the only team among the WTC finalists that hasn’t won a title in the current format. That motivation, paired with strategic additions like Broad and a well-rounded squad, sets the stage for a high-octane clash.