[WATCH] Emotional Keshav Maharaj breaks down after South Africa’s historic WTC 2025 victory. (Photo source: X)
South Africa spinner was overcome with emotion after his team’s triumph in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, securing victory over Australia by five wickets.
The left-arm spinner expressed his gratitude while calling it a great honour to lift the prestigious trophy for his country. He stated that they are grateful as a team and proud as a country. He thanked everyone who supported them. He emphasized that this victory is just the beginning and described it as a stepping stone to even greater achievements.
“It's special, it's an honour to lift the cup for everyone out here and back home. It's what the country's about, the unity among everyone in the last five days. We're very grateful, as a team, as a nation, as a proud country,” said Maharaj after the WTC victory.
“I think the emotions would've spurred me into the right direction had I got into bat. (Message to fans back home) Thanks to everyone who's been supporting us, through adversity we've stood strong. We honour those who've come before us, may this be a stepping stone for greater things to come,” he added.
Watch the video of Keshav Maharaj breaking down in tears after WTC Final 2025 winThe left-arm spinner reached a milestone in the WTC Final 2025, taking his 200th Test wicket by dismissing Alex Carey. This victory marked South Africa’s first ICC title in 27 years, their last triumph being the 1998 Wills International Cup (later renamed the Champions Trophy).
Australia scored in the first innings a total of 212, with Steve Smith (66) and Beau Webster (72) leading the charge, while Kagiso Rabada shone with a brilliant five-wicket haul. But, struggled in their first innings, getting bowled out for 138, with the help of a six-wicket masterclass from Pat Cummins.
Australia fought hard in their second innings, managing 207 runs, with Mitchell Starc (58) providing crucial runs. The Proteas needed to chase a target of 282, with Aiden Markram leading from the front with 136 runs and was well-supported by Temba Bavuma’s composed 66, guiding South Africa to a historic five-wicket victory.
