It was a day tailor made for fast bowling. Kagiso Rabada proved to the world his sensational credentials as he ran through Australia and played a pivotal role in restricting the Aussies to just 212 and in turn claimed a majestic Fifer on Day 1 of the World Test Championship Final at Lord’s.
Steve Smith played brilliantly for his 66 while Beau Webster rode his luck to top score with 72 after Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head and Alex Carey failed to make any notable contributions to the Australian cause. Apart from Rabada, Marco Jansen too bowled extremely well to take 3 wickets. South Africa caught well too.
In reply South Africa were struggling at 43/4 after Mitch Starc, Hazlewood and captain Pat Cummins bowled fiery spells to even out the day after South Africa had taken a head start. Aiden Markram went in the first over without scoring beaten by a pacy incoming delivery from Starc. Ryan Rickleton flattered to deceive, while Wiaan Mulder and Tristan Stubbs were removed cheaply.
The Day 2 will hold the key to the outcome of this Test Match in no uncertain terms. With the pitch still assisting the bowlers the Proteas will have to play out of their skins to put up a reasonable score. A lead of 50 for either team will put them in good stead for the remainder of the match. Lots rests on Bavuma and Bedingham, while the pace trio of Starc, Hazlewood and Cummins would be raring to go tomorrow.
We shall find out .