0Ngidi got some stick for his average bowling in the first innings of the WTC 2025 final between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s. But on June 12, he turned it around on the second day. The 29-year-old Durban fast bowler took three for 35 in nine overs to limit the Aussies to 144 for 8 in their second innings.
Ngidi got his first wicket by getting Steve Smith out LBW for 13 on the fifth ball of the 19th over, then Beau Webster for 9 in the same way. He finished his spell by cleaning up Pat Cummins, who made just six off five balls.
After the game Ngidi was feeling pretty positive about his team’s chances. “We were in the game,” he said. “They bowled well but we had a job to do.” He mentioned how the coach told them to play with conviction and take charge of their game.
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Ngidi admitted he had a tough time in the first innings but found his rhythm after tea. It was tough in the first innings; I struggled a bit, he said. But once I got into a groove I kept going.
He also said hearing his name from the crowd during his long spell really got him pumped up. Looking ahead he said: “We’re in a good position now; two balls could wrap up their innings. If we’re chasing anything below 230 it won’t be easy with their bowling but we want to give ourselves the best chance.”
