Australia will be embarrassed by what looks like a blown chance to win the World Test Championship, but it could be the wake-up call needed to stave off an Ashes annihilation in the summer.
Aiden Markram catapulted the Proteas to the cusp of victory, while there was bravery from his captain Temba Bavuma — and pain for Steve Smith. WHAT YOU MISSED OVERNIGHT.
Steve Smith will avoid surgery after a sickening finger injury in the World Test Championship final, which may affect his chances of touring the West Indies. More details inside.
What does it take to wear the baggy green in 2025? Sam Konstas and Phoebe Litchfield have what it takes to rise through the ranks of the sport’s greats.
Sydney Sixers have completed one of the biggest signings in BBL history, locking in one of T20 cricket’s greatest batters. Where does he rank in the BBL’S best internationals? HAVE YOUR SAY
Australia is on the verge of experiencing what it’s like to blow a World Cup Final, as South Africa turned the tables of history when a sickening injury for Steve Smith proved decisive. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS
Pat Cummins’ bowling was so masterful in the World Test Championship Final that Old Father Time weathervane that stands above Lord’s must have been tempted to drop his bails and applaud.
Marnus Labuschagne’s Test future is hanging by a thread but the worrying sign for Australia is the makeshift opener is not the only member of the top order who’s a cause for concern.
As Australia’s pace attack locked horns with South Africa, England were manoeuvring behind the scenes to unleash a shock weapon for the Ashes.
Alex Carey stood tall when Australia was in all sorts, while South Africa could be left to rue a crucial missed opportunity right at the death. WHAT YOU MISSED OVERNIGHT.
A relieved David Bedingham has relived the moment he was almost caught up in another Australian controversy at Lord’s, as Pat Cummins also weighed in on the handled ball drama.
The rule which stopped Australia’s quest for the World Test Championship being shown on free-to-air television won’t be reviewed for years despite growing anger from fans.
Steve Smith’s appetite for runs remains insatiable, becoming the leading overseas scorer in Tests at Lord’s with his half-century in the WTC final.
Australia has arrived at a pre-Ashes crossroads after a staggering capitulation at Lord’s, but a World Test Championship victory remains achievable thanks to a clutch partnership. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS
History says Australia will probably get away with the Marnus Labuschagne opening experiment thanks to the greatness of their fast bowling attack, but it won’t stop questions about his future.
South Africa did little wrong in the field after bowling and catching brilliantly but were still “spooked” by a blunder, while Alex Carey had an afternoon to forget. WHAT YOU MISSED ON DAY ONE.
Mitchell Starc put Australia’s World Cup bunnies back where they want them after a wildly eventful day one of the World Test Championship Final, as South Africa rued a game-changing howler. WATCH THE HIGHLIGHTS
Marnus Labuschagne was the Daly Cherry-Evans of Australian cricket this week. He could have been picked and flicked but Test selectors are more willing to respect, protect and select a loyal servant.
To understand the trauma of South African cricket’s past, it is a must to talk to those who lived it. It could show how today’s crop can avoid a similar fate in the World Test Championship final.
Australia’s path to the World Test Championship final has been littered with controversy, including an Ashes escape. Get up to date before the Aussies take on South Africa.
Formula One star Oscar Piastri hosted Sam Konstas and a bunch of his Australian teammates at the McLaren factory outside of London last week but the visit has had to remain a secret … until now.
Marnus Labuschagne has save his Test career, with teenage tyro Sam Konstas once again forced to wait as Pat Cummins locked in his Australian XI for the WTC final against South Africa.
Australia’s Mr Perfect Test captain Pat Cummins and larrikin VC, Travis Head don’t seem to have much in common on face value, but, says Head, they’re actually as thick as thieves.
Cameron Green is set to take his place at number three in the Australian Test batting line up for the World Test Championship but two years ago, he was certain he was going to be our next opener.
Stuart Broad played the role of Australia’s nemesis perfectly across 40 Ashes matches and is back for more as part of South Africa’s WTC final preparation. He reveals why he jumped at the opportunity.
Australia is yet to officially finalise its team but all indications point to Marnus Labuschagne winning the race over rookie Sam Konstas – but there’s one battle he still needs to overcome.
Despite bombing out of the World Test Championship at the start of the year, India has flexed its power to disrupt Australia’s preparations for the decider.
Mother’s Day has come late for Pamela Konstas. Cricket Australia has made a special allowance to let Sam Konstas pull off a heartwarming gesture for his mother.
Less than two years ago Steve Smith seemed to be flirting with the idea of retirement. Back in form, the Australian great has put those talks firmly to bed. He outlines his Olympic dreams.
Marnus Labuschagne looks increasingly likely to open for Australia in the World Test Championship Final and has received a glowing endorsement from would-be partner Usman Khawaja.
Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/sport/cricket/page/6