South Africa have announced their playing XI for the ICC Men’s World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia, set to begin tomorrow at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London. Fast bowler Lungi Ngidi returns to the side for the first time since August last year, having missed the entire home summer due to a groin injury.
Temba Bavuma confirmed the line-up on the eve of the match. There was no place for seamer Dane Paterson, who bagged a six-wicket haul in his most recent Test outing at home against Pakistan on Boxing Day. The Proteas opted for the experience and extra pace of Ngidi.
One of the tougher decisions: Bavuma on leaving out Paterson
“It was probably one of the tougher decisions that have been made, we’ve seen what ‘Pato’ (Paterson) did for us to the end of last season,” Bavuma said during the pre-match press conference. “l But it was more from a tactical point of view, a little bit more pace from Lungi, he’s taller as well. Lungi also has a good record, not taking away anything from Pato, he has the experience, he’s been here before, not that Paterson hasn’t.”
Kagiso Rabada will spearhead the pace attack, which also includes the tall left-armer Marco Jansen and the returning Ngidi. Wiaan Mulder provides an additional seam-bowling option.
Keshav Maharaj is the sole specialist spinner in the XI and is expected to play a key role on what is anticipated to be a dry surface at Lord’s. Aiden Markram will offer part-time spin support if required.
Ryan Rickelton has been preferred over Tony de Zorzi and is expected to open the batting alongside Markram.
South Africa XI for the WTC Final:
Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi
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