South Africa’s victory at Lord’s ended a decades-long ICC drought and stirred strong reactions from the global media.
After 27 years of heartbreaks, the Proteas finally stood on top of the cricketing world again and become the Test champions. Headlines from across the world captured the emotion and even a touch of humour for the big win.
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What did foreign outlets say about the match?
Australia’s The Sydney Morning Herald drew comparisons from the infamous 2018 ball-tampering saga, their headline declared: "Star of Sandpapergate gives Australia a batting lesson".
The article highlighted Aiden Markram’s century at Lord’s as the poetic moment of redemption, especially since he was present during that dramatic 2018 series.
In the UK, The Times focused more on the leadership of Temba Bavuma. Journalist Mike Atherton wrote a moving piece titled "Quiet man Temba Bavuma leading South Africa to their greatest moment".
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The article reflected on how his calmness and resilience carried South Africa through one of their toughest campaigns.
Australian sports site The Roar offered perhaps the most creative take, with a headline that read: "Well played to South Africa. Their new C-word is champions". The reference took aim at the “chokers” tag South Africa had been stuck with for years.
What made this win so memorable for South Africa?
South Africa emphatically chased down a 282-run target set by Australia to defend their World Test Championship at the Lord's.
Following up the good work of the bowlers over the two innings, Aiden Markram and captain Temba Bavuma shouldered the responsibility to take them through and added 147 runs for the 3rd wicket.
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Showing grit and discipline after a dull first innings, the Proteas managed to end their 27-year-long ICC Trophy hiatus, becoming the third team to win the WTC.