South Africa’s cricketing historical past welcomed a golden chapter on June 14, 2025, because the Proteas lifted the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) mace by defeating Australia in an exciting remaining at Lord’s. The six-wicket win not solely marked a exceptional finish to the 2023–25 cycle but additionally broke the nation’s 27-year drought for an ICC trophy. For a rustic that has lengthy carried the burden of heartbreaks and missed alternatives in world occasions, this win was greater than only a title — it was redemption.
Amidst the nationwide celebration, legendary cricketer AB de Villiers took to social media to share an emotional observe, praising the staff’s efficiency, significantly highlighting the contributions of skipper Temba Bavuma and centurion Aiden Markram. His message struck a private chord, reflecting each nationwide pleasure and the enjoyment of sharing the second along with his younger sons.
A defining second in South African cricket historical past
Notably, South Africa’s journey to the WTC 2025 title wasn’t nearly a dominant remaining — it was about resilience over two years of constant Check cricket. By overcoming the defending champions Australia within the summit conflict, the Proteas lastly shed the dreaded “chokers” tag that haunted them in earlier ICC tournaments.
Markram led the way in which within the remaining with a chic match-winning century, anchoring the chase below stress. Bavuma’s management was calm but fierce, guiding the staff with a mixture of grit and tactical sharpness. The victory, set in opposition to the long-lasting backdrop of Lord’s, evoked recollections of South Africa’s rise within the late Nineteen Nineties — solely this time, they crossed the ultimate hurdle.
Additionally READ: Fans go gaga as South Africa lift first-ever WTC title with Aiden Markram’s epic 136 against Australia at Lord’s
AB de Villiers’ tribute to the WTC Champions
Reacting to the historic victory, former Proteas captain De Villiers posted a touching message on X (previously Twitter), applauding the staff’s composure and brilliance on the largest stage.
“Congratulations @ProteasMenCSA Unbelievable win and so effectively performed! Hats off to Markram for that match successful century, and Temba for main with such ice and fireplace all by” wrote de Villiers.
He went on to explain the non-public pleasure of watching the WTC Ultimate unfold, noting how the sluggish drama of Check cricket made the expertise much more particular.
“What an unimaginable expertise of watching this lovely format of the sport! The constructed up drama, the sluggish anticipation, and the candy victory to finish all of it have been moments to savour.. and to expertise that with my two boys thrilled and on their toes — couldn’t have imagined it higher than this,” added De Villiers.
Congratulations @ProteasMenCSA
Unbelievable win and so effectively performed! Hats off to Markram for that match successful century, and Temba for main with such ice and fireplace all by👏🏻🏆What an unimaginable expertise of watching this lovely format of the sport! The constructed up drama,… pic.twitter.com/NVBR3apmKo
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) June 14, 2025
Additionally WATCH: WTC Final 2025 – Aiden Markram’s match-winning knock earns standing ovation from Lord’s crowd
