The ICC World Test Championship Final 2025 between South Africa and Australia got off to a thrilling start on Day 1, with the Proteas' bowlers taking centre stage. Australia was bowled out for a modest 212 runs, thanks to a brilliant performance from Kagiso Rabada, who claimed a five-wicket haul.

Rabada's fiery spell was the pick of the bunch, and it set the tone for South Africa's dominance on the first day. Marco Jansen chipped in with three crucial wickets, further adding to Australia's woes. The Australian batting lineup struggled to find its footing, with Steve Smith and Beau Webster being the lone bright spots. Smith scored a patient 66 runs off 112 balls, while Webster's 72 runs off 92 balls was a highlight of the innings.

In response, South Africa's batting lineup got off to a rocky start, slumping to 43/4. Captain Temba Bavuma and David Bedingham are still at the crease, but the Proteas will need to rebuild their innings if they want to put pressure on the Australians.

As the match heads into Day 2, all eyes will be on South Africa's batsmen to see if they can capitalise on the momentum gained by their bowlers.

Day 1 score: Australia 212 all out, South Africa 43/4.