Australian captain Pat Cummins showcased his leadership by example in the WTC final, achieving a significant milestone by dismissing Temba Bavuma. Cummins took six wickets in the first innings against South Africa, including the crucial dismissal of Bavuma, marking his 19th dismissal of opposition captains in Test cricket history. This achievement places him ahead of Richie Benaud, who previously held the record with 18 dismissals. On Day 2 of the WTC final, Australia extended their lead to 218 runs, with contributions from Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc, despite South Africa’s efforts led by Lungi Ngidi and Kagiso Rabada. At stumps, Australia was at 144/8.
