The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final is with no doubt going to see Australia protect their crown against South African team which is making its first appearance in the finale in three editions. Before this confrontation, former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Harbhajan Singh have expressed their opinions regarding the match and what aspects may decide the winner of the game.
The Pat Cummins-led team, which defeated India in the 2023 final, will be feeling quite confident after winning the WTC for the second time in a row. After winning the two-year cycle, South Africa, led by Temba Bavuma, is making their first appearance in a WTC final. Despite Australia’s early lead, South Africa has made an outstanding run to the championship game.
Aakash Chopra evaluated each side’s advantages and disadvantages. He noted that Pat Cummins, the captain of Australia, is anticipated to pose a serious danger to the South African batting order.
“Pat Cummins is the biggest threat. His leadership, his bowling when there is a partnership, his batting lower down the order—he contributes across departments. He leads from the front and always keeps the opposition under pressure.”
Aakash Chopra
Harbhajan Singh Praises Pat Cummins’ Leadership Ahead of WTC Final 2025
Meanwhile, Harbhajan Singh offered his thoughts on Cummins as a leader, emphasizing how Nathan Lyon and Travis Head might play important roles in the summit clash.
“Cummins is one of those leaders who brings everyone together. More importantly, he’s a proven match-winner with great command in the dressing room. When your team respects and rallies behind you, you win more matches. That’s what makes him a very special captain for Australia. Nathan Lyon can be a threat, especially since South Africa doesn’t play spin too well. He’s a champion bowler—conditions don’t bother him. He’s always in the game. And one man who can take the game away quickly is Travis Head. He doesn’t just move the score forward, he moves the match forward. If he bats well, he’ll be key.”
Harbhajan Singh
The former Indian spinner added that, compared to South Africa, who last visited England in 2022, the Australian squad has a major edge because of their experience playing in English conditions.
“Australia will come prepared. They’ve played a lot of cricket in England—Ashes, the last WTC Final—and that experience will count. They understand these conditions better than South Africa does. Plus, they’re a champion side. The difference lies in how you handle pressure during big matches, and Aussies are masters at that. That’s why they’ve won more trophies than anyone else.”
Harbhajan Singh
