Markram Shares A Beer With Fans After South Africa End Drought With Historic WTC
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Aiden Markram celebrated by sharing a drink with fans after leading South Africa to the ICC World Test Championship and ending a 27-year trophy drought.
Aiden Markram was in a jolly mood after starring in South Africa's five-wicket victory over Australia at Lord's, winning the 2025 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and ending a 27-year drought.
Markram enjoyed a drink with fans as he celebrated the historic win.
Opener Markram described the triumph, secured by his match-winning knock, as one of his most special days.
Markram scored a majestic 136 in the second innings, following a duck in the first, to lead South Africa's successful chase of 282 on day four. This victory secured their first ICC WTC mace and ended a trophy drought dating back to the 1998 Champions Trophy.
'I haven't scored more important runs. It's strange how things worked out after a duck in the first innings. You need a bit of luck, spend time in the middle, and find runs. I'm glad it worked out. The reception stood out. Lord's is a place every Test cricketer dreams of playing. Playing a final here is incredibly special. We had many South African fans in the stands and many more at home. It's one of the most special days," said Markram at the post-match presentation.
He also discussed his approach to batting during the chase. 'It's always about balancing defence and scoring. Looking at the wicket and the quality of the bowling, you have a limited number of balls to face and need to maximise scoring from those. Lyon is one of the best; we've had plenty of banter. If this had gone to day five and it kept spinning, he'd have been a handful."
Markram, named Player of the Match, shared a 147-run stand with skipper Temba Bavuma, who scored 66 despite a left hamstring strain. 'A lot of credit goes to him (for continuing to bat). He's led us from the front for the last two to three years. He didn't want to leave the field yesterday and found a way to score important runs. It was an innings many will remember," he added.
First Published:
June 14, 2025, 19:27 IST
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