Proteas Make History: First Ever ICC Title & the Road to Redemption

For decades, the phrase “Proteas always choke in finals” has haunted South African cricket fans. The national side has come agonizingly close to glory on several occasions, only to fall short at the last hurdle. But in 2025, that narrative finally changed. In a thrilling match at Lord’s, the Proteas clinched their first-ever ICC title by winning the World Test Championship (WTC). This is more than a victory — it’s a new chapter in South Africa’s cricketing story.

The Final Showdown vs Australia

  • In the 2025 WTC Final, South Africa chased down 282 runs on the fourth morning, sealing a five-wicket victory. 

  • Aiden Markram’s masterful 136 anchored the innings, and Temba Bavuma contributed a gritty 66 under pressure. 

  • The day also featured moments of incredible tension, including a DRS review that came into play when Bavuma appeared to be out, but the spike (i.e. nudge on Snicko) showed otherwise.

  • The victory ended South Africa’s 27-year wait for a major ICC trophy (their last being the 1998 ICC Knockout Trophy). 

Breaking the “Chokers” Tag

  • For years, the Proteas were condemned by a label their fans dreaded — “chokers” — because of repeated losses during knockout stages of major tournaments. 

  • Bavuma confirmed that sledging from opponents referencing that tag was indeed heard during the final, making the win all the more symbolic.

  • Markram himself noted that this victory “will be great not to hear it again.” 

What This Means for South African Cricket

  • This landmark win is likely to reenergize the sport at grassroots levels in SA, inspiring aspiring players and fans alike.

  • The win may strengthen the international perception of the Proteas as a team that can deliver under pressure.

  • Momentum is now on their side heading into upcoming series and tournaments — the challenge now is to maintain consistency.

Looking Ahead: Tests, White-Ball Tours, and Challenges

  • With the WTC trophy secured, the focus shifts to the Proteas’ upcoming tours. Among them, a tour of Pakistan is imminent, with expectations high. 

  • However, key players face injury concerns. Captain Temba Bavuma has been plagued by chronic injury issues, and it was recently confirmed he would be ruled out of the Pakistan trip.

  • In his absence, there’s speculation about leadership transitions and batting order adjustments.

  • On a positive note, Quinton de Kock recently reversed his ODI retirement and has been named in the white-ball squads for Pakistan. 

What Fans Can Do to Support

  • Backing home series and showing up in stadiums will be vital to sustain momentum.

  • Wearing official Protea jerseys, caps, and accessories helps foster pride and visibility — that’s where ProteaShopSA comes in 😉

  • Stay engaged, follow every series, and share your pride. This is a rare, historic moment in South African cricket.

Back to News