Markram Embraces Opportunity, Hoping For WTC Final

South Africa's interim captain Aiden Markram is enthusiastic about their prospects for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final but insists on a focused, game-by-game approach. Currently, the Proteas rank fifth in the WTC standings with a points percentage (PCT) of 47.62, following a seven-wicket victory over Bangladesh in Mirpur.

With five games left in this cycle — including a second Test against Bangladesh in Chattogram and home series against Pakistan and Sri Lanka — South Africa has a solid path to the WTC final. Winning these matches could elevate their PCT to 69.44, surpassing India’s current lead at 62.82. However, their fate also hinges on other teams' performances.

Despite the stakes, Markram remains calm, emphasising that the team views this as a thrilling opportunity rather than a pressure point. “It's just an exciting chance for us. We’re focused on taking it session by session, game by game,” he remarked in a Chattogram press conference.

Assessing the conditions in Chattogram, Markram noted the pitch differs from Mirpur, with “slightly truer bounce and more speed off the wicket,” which may influence their team strategy.

Markram’s measured optimism reflects the Proteas’ approach to the remainder of the WTC campaign. With each Test crucial, they’re set on maximising their chance to make their first WTC final while keeping expectations grounded.