After missing out on the T20 World Cup in 2024 by a small margin, South Africa will have another shot at an ICC title as they face Australia in the final of the World Test Championship 2023-25.
This will be the first out of the three WTC cycles where India wouldn't be competing in the final after the Proteas topped the table followed by Australia at number 2 as they play each other from June 11 to 15 at the Lord's.
Follow The Sporting News India on WhatsApp
Ahead of the game, as per the experts, Australia go in as the favorites, considering their well rounded team and how they turn up for the big occasions.
However, former South Africa captain and batter, AB de Villiers has backed the first-time finalists to end their trophy drought by defeating the defending champions. See what he had to say.
READ MORE: 'I'm always under pressure' - India head coach Gautam Gambhir opens up ahead of IND vs ENG Tests
AB de Villiers backs the Proteas to upset Australia in the WTC final
While speaking to Star Sports in the build-up to the final of the WTC, de Villiers thought this as another big moment for SA to win the trophy and emphasized the fact that Australia would go in as the favorites to defend their title.
"This is a massive moment for South African cricket—a final at Lord's. The entire nation will be behind our team, and hopefully, we can cross the line. I'm excited for the challenge. It's a well-balanced side, and I'm quietly confident we can upset Australia — I say 'upset' because they're clearly the favorites for this ICC World Test Championship Final," said de Villiers.
de Villiers, who has 8765 runs in Test cricket at an average of 50.66 in 114 Tests also accepted that the task wouldn't be easy for them with how well-oiled Australia is but did not rule out the possibility to win the title.
"Australia are a very experienced, well-oiled machine of a team. It won't be easy for South Africa. But I'm quietly confident because we're going there with many in-form players and big-hearted guys who have something to prove on this stage," he added.