History was made at Lord’s during the WTC Final 2025, and not just because of the title at stake. On Day One, something extraordinary unfolded. For the first time in 145 years, all four openers in a Test match were dismissed without scoring. The last time that happened? Back in 1880, on this very ground. Lord’s became a time machine, and cricket fans were left stunned.
Australia batted first after South Africa won the toss. The decision to bowl first paid off instantly. Kagiso Rabada was ruthless. Rabada made an immediate impact, removing both Australian openers in rapid succession. Usman Khawaja endured a long struggle at the crease, facing 20 balls before falling for a duck, one of the lengthiest in recent times. David Warner also walked back without opening his account. Similarly, Australia was two wickets down, and the final had exploded into life.
But things didn’t settle. Australia regrouped. Steve Smith proved his Lord’s mastery yet again, anchoring Australia’s innings with a crucial 66. Young gun Beau Webster chipped in with 72, steadying the ship. Their 95-run partnership gave Australia something to defend. They eventually folded for 212, not a massive score, but one that carried weight given the tense conditions.
South Africa, however, faced the same nightmare. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins came charging in. In just a few overs, both South African openers were also gone for ducks. By stumps, they were reeling at 43/4. Just like that, history had repeated itself.
This wasn’t just about wickets and runs. It was about timing. About how, after 145 years, one of Test cricket’s rarest patterns reappeared at the home of cricket in a global final. Fans couldn’t believe it. Statisticians rushed to verify it. Further, Social media exploded with reactions. Everyone realized they were witnessing something special.
Meanwhile, Rabada added another feather to his cap. His five-wicket haul made him South Africa’s fourth-highest wicket-taker in Tests. He became just the second bowler to take a five-wicket haul in a WTC Final. With 5/51, he once again proved why he’s one of the game’s modern greats.
Therefore, as the final moves into Day Two, Australia holds the upper hand. Yet the game is far from over. With the pitch challenging and tension rising, the match remains wide open.
The WTC final 2025 is already unforgettable, not just for the cricket but for the symmetry. For the way a moment from 1880 resurfaced and gave new meaning to this modern-day classic.
The Lords didn’t just host a match. It hosted a moment that brought the past crashing into the present and reminded the world why Test cricket remains a thrill.
