South Africa’s part-time off-spinner Aiden Markram did the trick for his side, dismissing Josh Hazlewood to break a resilient 59-run partnership with Mitchell Starc for the last wicket in Australia’s second innings on Day 3 of the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) final on Friday, June 13. The match is being played at Lord’s Cricket Ground in England.

The breakthrough came on the final ball of the 65th over of Australia’s second innings. Markram bowled a flatter delivery wide outside off, which Hazlewood punched off the back foot straight into the hands of Keshav Maharaj at cover.

Watch the dismissal video here:

Australia’s number 11 contributed 17 runs off 53 balls, including two boundaries. His dismissal saw Australia bowled out for 207 in 65 overs.

Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc show resilience to help Australia set a target of 282 runs for South Africa

After opting to bowl first on Day 1, South Africa dismissed Australia for 212 in their first innings, with Kagiso Rabada leading the way by taking five wickets. However, the Proteas’ batting lineup faltered in response, as Australia’s skipper Pat Cummins produced a brilliant spell, claiming six wickets to bowl South Africa out for just 138.

In their second innings, Australia struggled early on, with Lungi Ngidi striking three times in quick succession to reduce them to 73/7. Mitchell Starc and Alex Carey (43) steadied the innings, adding 61 runs for the eighth wicket to take Australia to 144/8 by stumps on Day 2.

On Day 3, Rabada struck early again, removing Nathan Lyon for two. However, Starc and Josh Hazlewood showed remarkable resilience, putting together a 59-run stand for the final wicket before the latter fell for 17. Starc was outstanding, finishing unbeaten on 58 off 136 balls with five fours, as Australia posted 207 in their second innings, setting South Africa a target of 282 runs to win.