Impressive Bedingham Keeps South Africa Afloat in WTC Final with Gritty Knock

London, June 12, 2025

WTC Final: Bedingham Leads South Africa’s Resistance Amid Pressure

In a gripping session at The Oval, South African batter David Bedingham provided a ray of hope for his side with a determined innings, helping South Africa reach 121/5 at lunch on Day 3 of the WTC Final. Trailing by 91 runs, the Proteas are still under pressure, but Bedingham’s resilience has kept their hopes alive.

WTC Final drama unfolds as South Africa grapples with early blows

The morning session began with high intensity as South Africa resumed their innings under overcast skies. The Indian pace attack, known for their lethal accuracy, struck early. With wickets tumbling at regular intervals, South Africa looked to be in deep trouble until Bedingham stepped up with a composed and technically sound innings.

By lunch, South Africa had managed to cross the 100-run mark, but the scoreboard pressure remained. Bedingham’s approach was a mix of caution and class, showcasing his temperament in a high-stakes WTC Final clash.

Bedingham the lone warrior in South Africa’s WTC Final battle

David Bedingham was the standout performer in an otherwise crumbling South African batting lineup. His 46-run knock (not out at lunch) came at a crucial time when the top order failed to withstand the heat of India’s bowling attack. His strokeplay was elegant, yet calculated—rarely flashing at deliveries outside the off-stump and focusing on building partnerships.

While wickets fell at the other end, Bedingham remained unshaken. His calm presence and ability to rotate the strike frustrated the Indian bowlers and gave the South African camp a much-needed sense of belief in the WTC Final contest.

India’s bowlers dominate, but WTC Final far from over

The Indian pace trio continued their impressive form in the WTC Final, with Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj sharing the wickets. Their relentless line and length kept the South African batters on the back foot. Ravindra Jadeja was introduced early and kept things tight from his end, further building the pressure.

Despite India’s dominance, the match is delicately poised. If South Africa can build a couple of steady partnerships in the next session, they may claw their way back into the WTC Final.

A defining day in the WTC Final ahead

With the match hanging in the balance, Day 3’s second session could well shape the destiny of the WTC Final. South Africa will need Bedingham to continue anchoring the innings while the lower order contributes meaningfully. On the other hand, India will look to tighten their grip and secure a commanding lead.

The pitch at The Oval has started to show signs of uneven bounce, and the overcast conditions are expected to continue—a factor both teams will need to navigate wisely.