Read more
Aiden Markram etched his name into history when he led South Africa to victory against Australia in the World Test...
Aiden Markram made a match-winning century in South Africa’s second innings against Australia at Lord’s. Picture: Gallo Images
Aiden Markram etched his name into history when he led South Africa to victory against Australia in the World Test Championship on the 14th of June 2025 at Lord’s.
The South African looked calm and composed as he chased down the second-highest fourth innings total set at the prestigious ground. Markram, who went for a duck in the first innings, put that to bed by putting together a match-winning performance to help the Proteas win their first ICC title in 27 years.
The knock at the top of the order would have been great value if you are into cricket betting, and there are plenty of niche markets just like this to explore at some of the top South African betting sites.
Key Phases of the Match-Winning 136
Markram’s innings was a thing of beauty. He scored an impressive 136 runs off 207 balls as he took control of the final. Not without any scares, though, Markram edged a Cummins delivery that luckily fell between the wicket keeper and slip to save his blushes.
He had a cautious approach upfront as he saw off the Australian pace attack of Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood and eventually found himself on 28 runs from the first five overs.
Post lunch Markram grew in confidence and the 30-year-old put the Australian bowlers to the sword with some exquisite shots. He played a few cover drives and deft cuts that frustrated the Australians and raced to 69.
Temba Bavuma was brought to the crease and his partnership with Markram created the foundation as Markram marched to his century. In the 55th over, Markram flicked Hazelwood for four and raised his bat to the crowd as he crossed wickets.
From U-19 Prodigy to Proteas Pillar
Markram burst onto the scene as a teenager when he began captaining the South African U-19 team to the 2014 World Cup title. He was seen as a prodigy at such a young age and would go on to cement his place in the Proteas side.
Markram would again make the world take notice of his ability in 2017 when he scored 97 and 143 in his Test debut against Bangladesh. After an inconsistent spell and injuries, Markram would answer his critics in the Test Championship final and lead his side to victory against all odds.
Fan and Expert Reactions Across South Africa
The triumph at Lord’s sent waves across the world and South Africa erupted with pride and joy as they witnessed the Proteas lift a major trophy in decades. Social media was a buzz as fans hailed his impressive innings. The airport at OR Tambo was packed with fans upon the Proteas’ arrival as they went out in numbers to welcome home their heroes, while former Australian captain, Ricky Ponting heaped praise on Markram and called it one of the greatest ICC Final innings ever.
Impact on South African Cricket’s Narrative
Markram’s innings and heroics on the day brought a halt to the “chokers” tag that labelled the Proteas for far too long after their near misses in major tournaments over the past couple of decades. The monumental victory by this Proteas side will do wonders for team confidence and morale under new coach Shukri Conrad and even inspire younger generations as they dream to emulate the Proteas heroics at Lord’s.
What’s Next for South Africa’s New Hero
Markram’s innings has proven that he can do it on the biggest of stages and has grown his market value exponentially. His leadership will also be key to the Proteas in future as they look forward to the upcoming tours which include a 50 over series against New Zealand and Pakistan and the 2027 World Cup looming.
