WTC Final: Australia all out at 212 runs; South Africa limping at 43/4

New Delhi (India) June 12: There was great drama, outstanding bowling and a remarkable statistical exceptions on the first day of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final between South Africa and Australia at Lord's.

Australia was stopped by South Africa at 212 runs because of a five-wicket haul from Kagiso Rabada, but Mitchell Starc took over soon. After dismissing Aiden Markram in the opening over of the South African innings, he continued to take the wicket of Ryan Rickelton, his opening partner. South Africa managed just 19 runs in the first 10 overs and Starc ended up bowling seven consecutive overs. On 43/4, South Africa finally ended the day limping.

The opening batsmen for both sides who were ranked first in the batting order, were out for ducks in their respective first innings in a strange event. Aiden Markram of South Africa and Usman Khawaja of Australia were both sent out without scoring.

Jansen took three wickets and Rabada claimed five. However, South Africa's innings got off to a bad start, finishing Day 1 at 43/4 after Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc destroyed their top order.

Rabada also became the second bowler in history to take five wickets in a WTC Final. Kyle Jamieson was the only bowler who took a five-for against India in the 2021 final. 

In the second session, Steve Smith reached his 42nd Test fifty after South Africa controlled the opening half of Day 1. Aiden Markram, a part-time spinner, dismissed him for 66 to end his innings.

Steve Smith said, I think we're in a good spot. We've probably had a few missed opportunities with the bat to try and get a bigger total, but I think the wicket's offered something all day." 

In the last session, Australia put up a strong fight. Mitchell Starc took two wickets and Pat Cummins and Josh Hazelwood took one each to stop South Africa at 43 runs.

South Africa is now 169 runs behind Australia. Captain Temba Bavuma (3) and David Bedingham (8) will face a difficult challenge when they return on Thursday.

The South African team includes Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Temba Bavuma (c), David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi.

The Australian team includes Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wK), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon and Josh Hazlewood.

Aadrika Tayal