WTC Final, Day 1 Highlights: Rabada Shines, Smith Stands Tall, But Australian Pacers Dominate South Africa

The opening day of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 lived up to its high-stakes billing as cricketing giants Australia and South Africa locked horns in a gripping battle at The Oval. Kagiso Rabada displayed his bowling brilliance in the morning session, Steve Smith anchored Australia through a tricky middle phase, but the day ultimately tilted in favour of the Aussies as their pace battery put South Africa on the back foot by stumps.

Rabada’s Fiery Start Rocks Australia

South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first on a seamer-friendly pitch under overcast skies. Kagiso Rabada took full advantage of the conditions, unleashing an elite display of seam and swing to remove Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne early. His precise lines and lethal pace earned him figures of 3/41, as Australia stumbled to 72/4 before lunch.

Steve Smith’s Resilience Guides Recovery

As wickets tumbled around him, Steve Smith once again rose to the occasion, showcasing his class with a well-constructed 81 off 162 balls. With calm determination, Smith weathered a relentless South African pace attack and stitched crucial partnerships with Cameron Green and Alex Carey. His knock not only stabilized the innings but also signaled Australia’s intent to fight deep into the game.

Lower-Order Push and First-Innings Total

Australia eventually posted 271 all out, thanks to handy lower-order contributions from Carey (32) and Starc (21), ensuring they crossed the 250-run mark on a challenging wicket. Lungi Ngidi and Marco Jansen supported Rabada well, sharing five wickets between them.

Aussie Pacers Turn the Tide

With the ball in hand, Australia’s fast bowlers came out roaring. Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood hit their lengths with precision and extracted movement under lights. South Africa’s top-order was shattered quickly, with Dean Elgar and Temba Bavuma falling cheaply. At stumps, South Africa reeled at 47/4, trailing by 224 runs, with only Aiden Markram showing signs of resistance.

Key Moments of the Day

• Rabada’s new-ball spell set the tone, removing key Aussie batters within 10 overs.

• Smith’s masterclass in patience helped rebuild and frustrate South Africa’s bowling plans.

• Australia’s trio of pacers, led by Cummins, dismantled South Africa’s top order in the final session.