Monty Panesar’s WTC winner prediction: ‘South Africa win will be wonderful cricket story, they play less Tests than India, Australia and England’

By | June 11, 2025
Monty Panesar giving his WTC Final prediction for South Africa and Australia

As cricket fans worldwide tune in for the much-anticipated World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 between Australia and South Africa, former England spinner Monty Panesar has shared his views — and they strike a compelling balance between pragmatic analysis and emotional hope. While Panesar concedes that Australia might have the edge with their bowling firepower and experience, he also champions the idea of a South African win as a “wonderful cricket story.”

With the final set to unfold at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the stage is primed for either the continuation of Australia’s Test dominance or the emergence of a new, inspiring chapter in cricket history — one led by an underdog South African side.

Australia: The Undisputed Favorites?

Panesar, known for his thoughtful cricketing insights, emphasized the strength of Australia’s squad, particularly pointing to Josh Hazlewood’s record in big games. “Hazlewood has never lost a final,” he stated, adding that Australia is not only balanced in the seam department but also boasts a well-rounded batting lineup. From Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc to Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne, the Aussies carry the confidence and experience of having played — and won — on the biggest stages.

Their recent triumphs, including the 2023 WTC Final victory over India and the 2023 ODI World Cup win, have only fortified their position as modern-day giants in all formats. For most analysts and bookmakers, Australia walks into this final as the safer bet.

South Africa: The Sentimental Favorite

Yet, it’s the story of South Africa that tugs at the heartstrings. A nation that has long produced world-class players — think Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, and Dale Steyn — but often fallen short at key moments. Now, as they enter only their first-ever WTC final, the world sees a rare opportunity for redemption.

Panesar touched on the unique challenges the South African team faces, noting that they play significantly fewer Test matches than powerhouses like India, Australia, and England. Despite limited fixtures, they’ve defied expectations to reach the summit clash — a feat in itself.

“If South Africa wins this, I want to see them playing more Test matches,” Panesar remarked. “That’s what we need.”

This perspective shines a light on an uncomfortable reality in world cricket: the shrinking Test calendars for teams outside the “Big Three.” South Africa’s journey to the final, under such constraints, is not just impressive — it’s deeply symbolic of resilience.

The Bigger Picture: A Win Beyond Numbers

Should South Africa triumph, it wouldn’t merely be about lifting a trophy — it would be about validating a system that still prioritizes quality over quantity. It would remind cricket boards and fans alike of the power of traditional red-ball cricket to captivate, inspire, and surprise.

The Proteas have approached this final with quiet confidence. Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma and with talents like Kagiso Rabada, Anrich Nortje, and Aiden Markram in the ranks, the team carries the potential to stun Australia. They know they are the underdogs, but that only fuels their motivation.

Why the Cricketing World Should Root for South Africa

While the sport thrives on fierce competition, it also thrives on narratives — and few stories would be as stirring as a South African win. It would represent more than national pride; it would be a victory for underrepresented Test-playing nations, a call to rethink global cricketing priorities.

Imagine the impact: increased investment in South African cricket, more Test fixtures scheduled, and greater visibility for upcoming talents who dream of wearing the Proteas cap. It would offer hope not only to South Africa but to other nations like the West Indies, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan — all of whom grapple with similar marginalization in the Test calendar.

Australia vs South Africa: What’s at Stake?

  • For Australia: A chance to cement their legacy as the most dominant team in the WTC era. With back-to-back final appearances, another win would be a testament to their all-format supremacy.
  • For South Africa: A shot at rewriting history and proving that consistency and grit can overcome institutional limitations.

Panesar’s commentary, though leaning toward Australia on form and stats, leaves room for emotion and idealism. “It would be a wonderful cricket story,” he repeated — a line that resonates with fans worldwide.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Match

As Lord’s prepares to host this monumental clash, fans are bracing not just for a contest between bat and ball but for a battle of narratives. Australia may be the logical pick, but South Africa is the emotional favorite. And sometimes, in sport, emotion has a way of scripting unforgettable endings.

Monty Panesar’s hope isn’t just for South Africa to win a title — it’s for them to win a voice, a place, and a future in the elite company of Test cricket. Whether they lift the mace or not, their journey has already ignited a conversation the sport desperately needs.