Picture Credit: X
With majority of Test assignments for the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle having concluded, we already have the two finalists in South Africa and reigning champions, Australia all set to lock horns in the summit clash in June this year. The two will take on in the highly-anticipated battle at the Lord’s Cricket Ground in London from June 11 to 15.
However, there is still time for the ultimate clash, former Protean legend Shaun Pollock dropped some surprising statements, claiming that the Temba Bavuma-led side are not favourites. He admitted that Australia will be a tough opponent, seeing the brand of cricket they have played recently.
It’s going to be a tough one for South Africa: Shaun Pollock on WTC Final 2025
Speaking with Hindustan Times, the former Protean frankly admitted his take on the WTC Final winner, but also opined that winning the toss will be a crucial factor going into the game. “I think it’s going to be a tough one for South Africa. I don’t think we are going in as favourites. Let’s be honest. You look at the way Australia is playing their Test cricket, and you also look at the make-up of the South African side,” the legend stated.
“But the funny thing about Lord’s in June is you win the toss and bowl first on the day, because you can have a wonderful first innings and put the team under pressure," Pollock further added. However, the 51-year-old lauded the “unbelievable character” the team has shown to earn the qualification, adding, “I don’t think they are going as favourites, but they have shown some unbelievable character to qualify, and you never know.”
“We love cricket because there are no scripts involved. You can’t write a script for three months proper. You’ll have to see how things unfold on the day. They are in the final; they’ve got an opportunity and let’s see how they go," he concluded. It is to be noted that South Africa was among the first teams to qualify for the WTC Final after their two-wicket win over Pakistan in the first Test at Centurion. Australia, earlier this year sealed the second spot after beating India in the fifth and final Test in Sydney by six wickets.
