South Africa is one wicket away from a remarkable victory over Australia in the World Test Championship final. They require only 58 runs to win the title on this extraordinary fourth day of action. Aiden Markram has proven to be the cornerstone of South Africa’s innings, remaining unbeaten at 105 runs, showcasing remarkable skill and composure.
As the match started again, South Africa’s target still within reach and time still on their side to do so. With neither side willing to give an inch, Australia’s attack was determined to wrestle back the initiative. Travis Head in his usual position under the helmet at fine leg. At the other end, Pat Cummins bowled sharp bouncers to try to intimidate Markram.
On Day 3, Australia’s quicks struggled to contain South Africa’s progress, failing to bowl a single maiden over. This loss of control gave South Africa all the confidence in the world as they pulled away while chasing a relatively medium target. It was Markram that took full advantage of that, with a stunning 117 runs at one stage. His performance left no doubt he had what it took to carry his team to victory.
As the match unfolded, Australia managed to claim a crucial wicket when Marco Jansen was dismissed, with Stubbs falling victim to Mitchell Starc for just 8 runs, leaving South Africa at 241-4. Cummins and Cameron Green were pretty pumped after taking down Temba Bavuma. Bavuma had battled through the pain barrier, displaying extraordinary fortitude in his innings.
Despite the scoreboard pressure, Markram played confidently and with flair against a high-quality Aussie bowling attack. Somehow, Josh Hazlewood found a short ball to surprise him, forcing him into an awkward shot and breaking his defence. On the other hand, Markram played Starc’s length ball that was down the leg-side quite easily into a boundary.
The match progressed rapidly, with South Africa needing to score quickly to solidify their position. At their highest, they needed only 47 runs with 15 overs left to play. Everyone could feel the tension in the air, fans included. They were destined to salute either a landmark triumph for the home nation or the most magnificent Australian revival.
While the thrill of victory was felt on the field, fans and community members faced considerable aggravation off the pitch. Together with the weather, very long lines at the main gates created headaches for fans wanting to get in and experience their first-ever ePrix. One fan shared their disappointment about missing critical moments:
“But the bloody queues to get in are soooooo long that there is a continuous line of people wrapping round the entire stadium. Game might be over before I get in.” – Frustrated spectator
As South Africa got closer to their target, the excitement inside—and outside—the ground began to swell. Another fan expressed their anxiety regarding the outcome:
“I’m nervous, on their behalf. The batters in next will have spent the evening telling themselves that they’re relaxed, but I’m sure there are thoughts flittering around, mostly that they would all really like to not be required.” – Concerned supporter
The tempo of the match suggested it was only a matter of time before South Africa achieved their target. With each run across home plate, the stadium buzzed with increasing hope as fans could feel the groundswell of a miracle in the making.