Here’s what Australia captain Pat Cummins shared ahead of the World Test Championship final against South Africa.
Pat Cummins Welcomes Fresh Challenge Ahead of WTC Final Against South Africa
Pat Cummins led Australia are gearing up to face South Africa in the World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s. Ahead of the high-stakes clash, Cummins welcomed the change from the usual Australia-India finals, saying it feels “nice and different” to have South Africa in the summit contest.
The Aussie skipper acknowledged the Proteas’ presence as no surprise, noting their consistent strength in ICC events. While Australia, the defending WTC champions, are considered favourites due to their depth and experience, Cummins remains cautious of South Africa’s potent pace attack.
Cummins brushes aside South Africa’s critics
Since South Africa’s qualification for the World Test Championship final, critics have questioned the strength of their path, pointing out they played fewer Tests and didn’t face top-tier sides like Australia, India, or England during the WTC 2023–2025 cycle. But Pat Cummins has dismissed these arguments, defending South Africa’s place in the final.
“You can only beat who you come up against,” Cummins stated. “Our route to the final was pretty tough but I don’t blame South Africa for having a different route.”
While both teams head into the final without recent Test match practice, Cummins expects a fierce contest at a sold-out Lord’s. “It’s hard to say because there are so many unknowns,” he said. “We haven’t played them much, but you’ve got to be really well balanced to make the final. Their bowling has always stood out.”
Praising their attack, Cummins added, “Keshav Maharaj is a really solid spinner and they’ve always got plenty of quick bowlers who pose a challenge.”
