As South Africa gear up to face Australia in the WTC Final 2025 at Lord’s, former Proteas batter Daryll Cullinan has weighed in on the high-stakes contest—and the off-field pressure surrounding Kagiso Rabada.
Rabada, South Africa’s strike pacer, recently returned to action after serving a one-month suspension following a positive drug test for a recreational substance. While the pacer is cleared to play, Cullinan believes the topic will likely resurface on the field.
“It would be naive to think no comments will be made,” said Cullinan in an interview with Hindustan Times. “Only Rabada can deal with it. Good performances will settle that side of things.”
Rabada Under Pressure, But SA Has the Firepower
Rabada remains a crucial cog in Temba Bavuma’s bowling attack, and Cullinan believes his best response would be to let the ball do the talking.
“He’s going to have to live with it. The best way to put this to bed is by taking wickets.”
Australia are known for their mental disintegration tactics, and with Rabada’s off-field issue fresh in memory, the Lord’s final could test his temperament more than ever.
Bavuma’s Captaincy, SA’s ‘Chokers’ Tag & The Stakes
Cullinan gave a balanced assessment of Temba Bavuma’s leadership, calling him “a good captain, but not a great one,” while acknowledging his consistent form and ability to rely on his team.
“He’s doing nicely. He’s smart and knows when to ask for help. He has the players’ support.”
Regarding the infamous “chokers” label South Africa often face in big ICC events:
“It will always come up unless they win trophies. The only way to shake it off is by winning.”
Key to Victory: The Pace Attack
Cullinan believes South Africa’s best shot at beating Australia lies in their diverse pace battery and the consistency of Keshav Maharaj.
“Both teams have quality bowling line-ups, but South Africa’s variety with left and right-arm pace, and Maharaj’s control, gives them an edge.”
With RCB, PSG, and Crystal Palace recently breaking their long-standing trophy droughts, 2025 could be the year South Africa rewrites their story.
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