In what will be remembered as one of the most remarkable campaigns in World Test Championship (WTC) history, South Africa defied the odds to lift the 2023–25 title. From early setbacks to a record-breaking resurgence, the Proteas combined grit, strategy, and individual brilliance to clinch their maiden WTC crown.
Here’s how they did it — in five defining chapters:
1. Fortress at Home
South Africa’s campaign was built on near-total dominance at home. Across three series, they won five of six Tests, whitewashing both Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Their only blemish came in Cape Town, where they lost a two-day thriller to India. With a win-loss ratio of 5.0 — the best among all teams in home conditions — the Proteas turned their backyards into fortresses.
2. Breaking The Away Barrier
South Africa’s Achilles' heel in past WTC cycles had been away tours. Not this time. They won series against Bangladesh and West Indies, and ended the cycle with a 1.50 away win-loss ratio — second only to Australia. The Bangladesh series was particularly historic, marking their first Test series win in Asia in over a decade.
3. The Eight-Test Avalanche
After fielding a second-string side in a 2-0 loss to New Zealand, South Africa had no margin for error. Sitting seventh on the table, they needed to win all six remaining Tests — and did just that. Their unbeaten streak stretched to nine, including a draw against West Indies, and their eight consecutive wins set a new WTC record.
4. Bavuma’s Leadership Brilliance
Temba Bavuma’s appointment as captain proved transformational. He equalled Percy Chapman’s record for most wins (9) in the first 10 Tests as captain. With the bat, he averaged 59.30 — second-best among all batters (min. 5 innings) — and led critical partnerships, averaging 60.35 runs per stand. His calm leadership and consistent runs provided South Africa with much-needed stability.
5. A True Team Effort
South Africa’s success was driven by depth and balance. Fifteen players either scored a hundred or took a four-for across their nine wins — more than any other side. Rabada led the pace attack with 56 wickets, while Kyle Verreynne delivered three centuries and the winning runs in the final. They had nine different Player-of-the-Match awardees, showcasing the depth of match-winners in the squad.
