WP Cricket congratulates the Proteas Men on the ICC World Test Championship victory

June 2025

NEWLANDS – The Western Province Cricket Association (WPCA) extends heartfelt congratulations to the Proteas Men on their historic ICC World Test Championship Final triumph over Australia this past weekend.

South Africa ended a 27-year drought by defeating the defending champions by 5 wickets, claiming the coveted Test Championship Mace.

The Proteas struck early when captain Temba Bavuma chose to bowl first.  The pace attack, spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada (5/51), dismantled the Australian batting lineup, dismissing them for 212 in under 60 overs.

Australia, however, mounted a strong comeback by bowling South Africa out for 138 in the first innings, with World Sports Betting (WSB) Western Province Men batter David Bedingham top scoring with 45.

Despite being on the back foot, Shukri Conrad’s men unleashed another dominant pace performance in the second innings. Rabada (4/59) and Lungi Ngidi (3/38) restricted Australia, setting South Africa a target of 281.

A heroic second-innings century by Aiden Markram (136), supported by 66 from Bavuma, placed the Proteas in a commanding position. After the departures of Bavuma, Markram, and Tristan Stubbs, the WSB Western Province Men pair of Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne held their nerve to guide South Africa home – punching the air in celebration of the monumental achievement.

WPCA CEO, Corrie van Zyl, who was present at the Home of Cricket, said: “This has truly been one of my most memorable, if not the most memorable, events I’ve had the privilege to witness live, surrounded by South African supporters.

“The level of courage and calmness displayed by Temba and the team speaks volumes about their character and the quality of the team’s management.

“South Africa is indebted to this group for finally removing the monkey from our backs. How light we all feel now! I’m confident this marks the beginning of many more triumphs to come. Shosholoza!!!!”

WPCA President Johannes Adams added: “This victory is not only a proud moment for South African cricket, but a powerful reminder of what resilience, unity, and belief can achieve. The Western Province Cricket Association is especially proud of the contributions made by our very own David Bedingham and Kyle Verreynne, who showed tremendous composure on the world stage. We salute the entire Proteas squad and coaching staff for inspiring a nation and restoring hope in South African cricket. May this be the dawn of a new golden era.”