Proteas dig in at Lord's, Cummins makes breakthrough
South Africa have made the most of perfect batting conditions at Lord's to reduce Australia's lead to 91 in the World Test Championship final.
Starting day two in serious trouble at 4-43, the Proteas were able to frustrate Australia's star-studded bowling attack and move to 5-121 at lunch on day two.
Australia, boosted by Beau Webster's 72 and a 66 from Steve Smith, posted 212 on Wednesday after being sent in to bat.
With the sun shining from ball one on Thursday, unlike day one when it was overcast until the afternoon, South Africa batted sensibly and attempted to keep the scoreboard moving.
South Africa captain Temba Bavuma survived a controversial DRS decision, allowing him to make important inroads into Australia's lead.
Adjudged lbw on 16 off Josh Hazlewood, Bavuma left it late to review, but eventually took the decision upstairs with four seconds remaining.
The ball would have been smashing into the stumps, but a spike on snicko incredibly meant Bavuma had survived.
Former England captain Alastair Cook said during radio commentary he didn't believe Bavuma had hit it.
But after looking promising, highlighted by smashing opposing captain Pat Cummins for six, Bavuma (36) scooped a drive to cover where Marnus Labuschagne pulled off a terrific diving catch.
A stunning catch from Marnus Labuschagne to remove Temba Bavuma in the #WTC25 Final 😲Watch 👉 https://t.co/BZICeC71OJ pic.twitter.com/o4wX3ELWFg
— ICC (@ICC) June 12, 2025
Cummins (2-24) got the crucial breakthrough, gaining revenge for being the first bowler in the match to be hit over the rope.
Australia have managed to produce several edges, but none have carried completely to the slips cordon.
No.6 David Bedingham (39*) has looked steady at the crease, and will resume with dangerous wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne (11*) after lunch.
South Africa, who won seven-straight Tests to qualify for the final, are attempting to break a title drought in ICC tournaments dating back to 1998.
This AAP article was made possible by support from Amazon Prime Video, which is broadcasting the World Test Championship final.
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