The South Africa WTC Final 2025 could mark a fresh chapter in the country’s cricketing future, says former coach Mark Boucher. Despite criticism over their route to the final, Boucher believes lifting the trophy can revive interest in red-ball cricket across South Africa.
Boucher Sees Opportunity for Change
While many, including Michael Vaughan, have questioned South Africa’s path to the WTC Final 2025, Boucher defended the team. The former coach acknowledged that while they avoided England and Australia, they still beat the teams they faced. That, he insists, is reason enough to celebrate their presence in the final.
According to Boucher, a victory could reshape Test cricket’s perception in South Africa. Although interest at home has dipped, the final at Lord’s is expected to draw a strong crowd of expats and traveling supporters. For many, this one-off game is more than just another fixture—it’s a moment of reckoning.
South Africa’s Young Guns in Spotlight
In discussing the squad for the South Africa WTC Final 2025, Boucher pointed to two key batters. Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs have impressed domestically and overseas. Rickelton’s experience in England and Stubbs’ form in local cricket could prove vital. Although Australia’s line-up appears stronger on paper, Boucher believes attitude and execution will matter more in this one-match scenario.
Learning from the Past, Aiming for the Future
South Africa last toured England for Tests in 2022. That series ended in a 2-1 defeat, mainly due to underwhelming batting and selection errors. Boucher referenced their mistake of picking a spinner on a green pitch in Manchester, which led to a heavy loss. However, several players from that series, including Aiden Markram and Kyle Verreynne, remain in the current squad.
What Comes After the WTC Final?
Although no home Tests are scheduled this summer, the 2025-27 cycle looks intense. South Africa will host England, Australia, and Bangladesh next year. The South Africa WTC Final 2025 may not just decide a trophy—it might ignite a new passion for Tests in a cricketing nation long starved of success.
