Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

London, Jun 12: Skipper Pat Cummins produced a masterclass in fast bowling, claiming a spectacular 6-wicket haul to dismantle South Africa for 138 on Day Two of the 2025 ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. The Australian pace spearhead not only gave his side a 74-run first innings lead, but also etched his name into Lord’s history by becoming the first fast-bowling captain since 1982 to take a five-for at the iconic venue.

After a gritty morning session where South Africa put on 78 runs for the loss of captain Temba Bavuma (36), the post-lunch collapse stunned the Proteas. Cummins (6/28 in 18.1 overs) relentlessly attacked with pinpoint accuracy and relentless pressure, while Mitchell Starc (2/41) and Josh Hazlewood (1/27) chipped in effectively.

The turning point came right after lunch when Cummins trapped Kyle Verreynne lbw in dramatic fashion—the two even collided mid-pitch during the appeal. Replays confirmed the ball had grazed the top of off stump. What followed was a flurry of wickets, including a return catch from Marco Jansen, a faint edge from David Bedingham (top-scoring with 45), and a run-out of Keshav Maharaj.

Cummins sealed his sixth wicket when Kagiso Rabada found the fielder at deep mid-wicket, capping off a stunning collapse that saw South Africa lose their final five wickets for just 18 runs in 37 deliveries.

The fiery performance not only gave Australia the momentum in their title defense but also brought up Cummins’ 300th Test wicket, a major career milestone.

Brief Scores:

Australia – 212

South Africa – 138 in 57.1 overs

(David Bedingham 45, Temba Bavuma 36; Pat Cummins 6-28, Mitchell Starc 2-41)

Australia lead by 74 runs