Kagiso Rabada delivered a stunning bowling performance on the opening day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia, claiming figures of 5/51 in 15.4 overs. This exceptional spell enabled South Africa to dismiss the defending champions for a modest 212 at Lord’s, giving his team an early advantage in the crucial match.
Rabada’s performance was not only impactful but also historically significant. He surpassed the legendary Allan Donald’s record, becoming South Africa’s fourth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket. He now has 332 wickets in 71 Tests, exceeding Donald’s 330 wickets in 72 matches.
Rabada’s five-wicket haul also secured him a unique WTC final record, becoming only the second bowler to achieve this feat in a WTC Final. New Zealand’s Kyle Jamieson was the first, accomplishing it against India in 2021. Rabada’s performance is now considered a highlight of bowling performances in WTC final history.
Known for his ability to handle pressure, Rabada has 11 wickets in five ICC knockout games with an impressive average of 19.27. His recent spell at Lord’s represents his career-best in an ICC final, placing him jointly in third place on South Africa’s list of knockout match wicket-takers alongside Shaun Pollock and Allan Donald.
Lord’s continues to be a successful venue for Rabada. With 18 wickets in just three Tests at the iconic ground and an average of 16.83, he has also surpassed Morne Morkel’s record (15 wickets) to become South Africa’s leading wicket-taker in Tests at Lord’s. Rabada now joins the elite company of Allan Donald and Makhaya Ntini, with two five-wicket hauls at the ground.
