'Found calm in the storm': South Africa end 27-year ICC trophy drought; what legendary cricketers said after historic win
South African players celebrate with the winner's trophy after their win in the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's cricket ground in London (AP Photo/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
NEW DELHI: South Africa clinched their first ICC trophy in 27 years by winning the World Test Championship title at Lord's on Saturday, prompting an outpouring of joy and congratulations from cricket legends worldwide, including AB de Villiers, Dale Steyn, Sachin Tendulkar, and Chris Gayle, who praised the team's character and determination in their historic victory.
The victory was particularly emotional for former South African greats AB de Villiers and Graeme Smith, who were visibly moved when cameras captured their reactions during the match.
The winning moment held special significance as these two cricket legends, who never experienced such triumph during their careers, watched from the sidelines while receiving applause from the crowd.
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"Fantastic win and so well played! Hats off to Markram for that match winning century, and Temba for leading with such ice and fire all through," De Villiers shared on X, adding, "What an incredible experience of watching this beautiful format of the game! The built up drama, the slow anticipation, and the sweet victory to end it all were moments to savour.. and to experience that with my two boys thrilled and on their toes — couldn't have imagined it better than this.
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Go Proteas!"
"Test cricket continues to weave its magic. 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," wrote Sachin Tendulkar on X, congratulating South Africa on becoming World Test Champions.
South Africa's successful chase of 282 runs at Lord's stands as the joint second-highest in the venue's history, with only West Indies' 342 in 1984 surpassing it.
The crucial 147-run partnership between Markram and Bavuma, spanning Day 3 and Day 4, proved decisive against Australia's bowling attack.
This victory places South Africa alongside New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023) as World Test Championship winners, while India finished as runners-up in the previous two editions.
Keshav Maharaj, in an emotional post-match interview with Graeme Smith, said, "It's special, it's an honour to lift the cup for everyone out here and back home.
Tears won't even describe what we feel right now. It's what the country's about, the unity among everyone in the last five days. We're very grateful for everyone here. For everyone here and back home, this is super special for us. We are very grateful as a team, as a nation.
"
Dale Steyn's celebratory response was succinct: "HOME!!!!!"
"Well done @ProteasMenCSA ..everything went right from the toss already .. enjoy the celebrations," wrote Herschelle Gibbs.
Lobo Predicted It, Again: South Africa's Historic WTC Win vs Australia
India's 1983 World Cup winner Madan Lal praised Markram's performance, adding, "This is a career-defining century for him, and he would be really pleased with it since he helped South Africa win their first world trophy."
"Masterful Markram! Great win by South Africa led by Temba Bavuma. This was a great ad for test cricket. Congratulations to ICC World Test Champions South Africa!" Chris Gayle celebrated.
Kumar Sangakkara praised the team's determination: "Bosh and Boom.
What a win for @ProteasMenCSAthey have out skilled and out wanted the Australians. tremendously led by Temba Bavuma. They're a team that shows how powerful purpose, passion and belief are in shaping the path to a trophy. A glorious day for South Africa."
"One of the most phenomenally responsible, nerveless 4th innings centuries in the game from Aiden Markram. Fitting that the former ICCU19World Cup winning captain (K G Rabada) helps guide Temba Bavuma's team to the Nation's greatest cricketing moment. ICC WTC Champs 2025," Ian Bishop concluded.
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