WTC 2025 Final: India crash out of race, it’s Australia vs South Africa for title clash at Lord’s

New Delhi: Australia clinched the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with a commanding six-wicket victory over India, securing a 3-1 series win on Sunday. This triumph has virtually guaranteed Australia’s spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. With the defending champions currently sitting second in the standings, their win percentage is secure, and even a 2-0 loss to Sri Lanka in their upcoming series will not drop them below third place, ensuring their passage to the final.

Webster’s Impressive Debut

Test debutant Beau Webster played a crucial role in completing the chase, hitting a boundary off Washington Sundar to finish unbeaten on 39. His calm and composed performance on debut helped Australia cross the finish line, marking an impressive first appearance.

Steve Smith’s 9999 Test Runs

Meanwhile, individual accolades for Steve Smith were temporarily delayed. His dismissal for just four earlier in the day left him stranded on 9999 Test runs. A short delivery from Prasidh Krishna proved to be his undoing, leaving Australia in a vulnerable position at 58/3. However, Usman Khawaja (41), Head, and Webster steadied the ship and guided Australia to victory.

Beau Webster finishes it off and Australia claims the Border-Gavaskar Trophy! #AUSvIND | #PlayOfTheDay | @nrmainsurance pic.twitter.com/fl5tmIMPPd

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2025

Australia Dismiss India for 157

Earlier in the day, Australia wrapped up India’s second innings, dismissing them for just 157. Scott Boland played a pivotal role, claiming a six-wicket haul, including the important wicket of Jasprit Bumrah, who continued to bat despite struggling with a back injury.

Bumrah’s Injury Woes

Bumrah’s participation in the match was limited due to ongoing back spasms. The Indian fast bowler bowled just one over after lunch on Day 2, with his speeds dropping to the 125kph range. He was later sent off for scans, and Prasidh Krishna, in his post-day press conference, confirmed that Bumrah had been dealing with back issues. Despite his injury, Bumrah’s contributions were significant, having bowled 152.1 overs across the series and taking 32 wickets at an average of 13.06, surpassing Bishan Bedi’s record for the most wickets taken by an Indian bowler on a tour of Australia