We are just 48 hours away from what is arguably the most important Test match in South African cricket history. On June 11 (Wednesday), the Proteas will face Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. It’s a historic occasion—not just because it’s South Africa’s first-ever WTC Final appearance, but also because it’s a shot at claiming their first major ICC title of this century.
This time last year, South Africa were nowhere near the conversation for WTC qualification. Yet, under Temba Bavuma’s leadership, they mounted an incredible comeback, defying the odds to secure a place in the final. Now, all eyes are on the playing XI and whether the Proteas can avoid the kind of selection mistakes that have haunted them in the past.
Selection Dilemma: Who Will Be the Fourth Pacer?
South Africa’s top seven virtually pick themselves. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton are expected to open, with Tristan Stubbs, Bavuma, David Bedingham, and Kyle Verreynne forming a solid middle order. Wiaan Mulder will play the all-rounder’s role, while Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, and Keshav Maharaj are automatic picks in the bowling department.
That leaves just one major decision for the team management: who fills the role of the fourth seamer?
Lungi Ngidi is the most seasoned among the available options, but his lack of recent game time—only two Tests since the start of 2023—and ongoing fitness concerns put a question mark over his inclusion. That narrows the race down to Dane Paterson and Corbin Bosch.
Paterson holds the edge thanks to two key factors. Firstly, his red-hot Test form: 13 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls, in his last two matches. Secondly, he brings local knowledge, having played for Middlesex at Lord’s during this year’s County Championship. Bosch offers more with the bat, potentially extending the tail, but it seems likely that South Africa will opt for Paterson’s consistency and experience with the red ball in English conditions.
South Africa’s Probable XI for WTC Final vs Australia
- Aiden Markram
- Ryan Rickelton
- Tristan Stubbs
- Temba Bavuma (captain)
- David Bedingham
- Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper)
- Wiaan Mulder
- Marco Jansen
- Kagiso Rabada
- Keshav Maharaj
- Dane Paterson
Players likely to miss out:
Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, Senuran Muthusamy, Tony de Zorzi
