Kyle Verreynne opens up about emotions after sealing WTC final victory

South African wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne shared an emotional account of his nerves and pride after helping secure his country’s maiden World Test Championship (WTC) title, defeating Australia in a dramatic final at Lord’s on Saturday.

Set a target of 282 in the 2025 WTC final, South Africa resumed Day 4 of the match at a commanding 213/2, needing just 69 more runs to claim the crown.

Aiden Markram and captain Temba Bavuma were well-set at the crease, raising hopes of a historic victory.

However, early breakthroughs from Australia threatened to turn the tide.

Pat Cummins struck first, removing Bavuma for a composed 66, while Mitchell Starc followed up by dismissing Tristan Stubbs cheaply, injecting sudden tension into the chase.

Markram, who had already reached three figures, remained composed and partnered with David Bedingham to add 35 crucial runs for the fifth wicket.

Just six runs shy of the target, Markram fell for a magnificent 136 off 207 balls, prompting a nervy climax to the match.

With the crowd on edge and six runs still required, Kyle Verreynne walked to the crease amid a wave of nerves.

Speaking after the match, he admitted the enormity of the moment almost overwhelmed him.

"I was watching in the morning and kept thinking, I don’t want to bat, I don’t want to bat. When I walked in the middle, I was the most nervous I have ever been," said Verreynne, recalling the immense pressure of the occasion.

Despite the nerves, Verreynne held his composure, scoring four runs and finally striking the winning single that sealed South Africa’s first major ICC trophy in 27 years — and their first-ever World Test Championship title.

“Means a lot. You can listen to the whole ground singing. Probably getting a little emotional now. It’s incredible,” he said, visibly moved during the post-match celebration.

The win marks a significant milestone for South African cricket, ending decades of heartbreak in ICC tournaments and affirming their strength in the longest format of the game.