[WATCH] WTC Final 2025: Marco Jansen’s juggling act at slip sends back Steve Smith

Marco Jansen.(Photo Source – Twitter / X)

The change of pace turned the tide for South Africa on Day 1 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 against Australia at Lord’s Cricket Ground, London. The part-time off-spinner Aiden Markram provided the crucial breakthrough after lunch, helping the Proteas regain control in the session.

Australia resumed after the break with Steve Smith and Beau Webster looking comfortable at the crease, building on the momentum. The pair had added 79 runs for the fifth wicket, pushing the Proteas onto the back foot after losing early wickets. The pacers were not able to find the breakthrough as Markram was introduced in the 42nd over.

On the final ball of the over, Markram delivered a tossed-up delivery outside off stump. Smith, who had looked in complete control till then, came into a drive but only managed a thick outside edge. Marco Jansen was stationed at slip and reacted quickly. The ball initially popped out of his hand to the left, then graced off his fingertips, but the seamer managed to cling onto it on his third attempt as he tumbled to the ground.

Watch the video below:

Smith, who was batting fluently on 66 off 112 balls with 10 boundaries, was looking set for a big score. The dismissal not only broke a key partnership but also shifted the momentum in the Proteas favour.

Earlier in the day, the Proteas pace attack had Aussies reeling. Kagiso Rabada and Jansen picked up two wickets each in the morning session, reducing the defending champions to 67 for 4 at lunch. While Webster tried to steady the innings with Smith, Markram’s crucial breakthrough brought back the game into their side.

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