London, Lord’s: In the WTC Final 2025, Australia tightened their grip over South Africa by ending Day 2 with a 218-run lead. In their second innings, Australia scored 144/8 after gaining a 74-run first-innings lead.

The day belonged to Pat Cummins, who not only reached 300 Test wickets, but also dismantled South Africa’s lower order, claiming 5 wickets for just 13 runs.

🔹 Key Moments of Day 2:

1. Labuschagne’s Spectacular Diving Catch

Temba Bavuma, batting on 36, tried a cover drive off Cummins, but Labuschagne dived full-length at short cover to take a stunner, breaking a 64-run stand with Bedingham.

2. DRS Turns the Game

Kyle Verreynne survived an LBW shout, but Cummins reviewed. The replay showed the ball was hitting the stumps. Verreynne was given out on 13.

3. Cummins’ Caught & Bowled Magic

In the 52nd over, Cummins dismissed Verreynne and then took a sharp return catch to remove Marco Jansen, who failed to score.

4. 300 Test Wickets for Cummins

With 300 wickets in 68 Tests, Cummins joined an elite group. He also has 14 five-wicket hauls in his Test career.

5. South Africa Collapse from 125/5 to 138 All Out

South Africa lost their last five wickets for just 13 runs, mirroring Australia’s first innings collapse (last 5 wickets for 22 runs).

🔸 Australia’s 2nd Innings Snapshot:

• Score: 144/8
• Not Out: Mitchell Starc (16*), Nathan Lyon (1*)
• SA Bowlers: Rabada & Ngidi – 3 wickets each