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Why Scott Boland Could Be Australia’s Secret Weapon in the WTC 2025 Final
With his unwavering accuracy and proven big-match temperament, Scott Boland is poised to play a pivotal role in Australia’s quest to defend their World Test Championship title against South Africa at Lord’s.
As the countdown to the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 intensifies, all eyes are on Australia’s bowling lineup. While the return of seasoned pacers like Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins has garnered attention, it’s Scott Boland who might just be the ace up Australia’s sleeve when they face South Africa at Lord’s starting June 11.
Boland’s meteoric rise in Test cricket is a testament to his resilience and skill. His debut during the 2021–22 Ashes series was nothing short of sensational, where he claimed 6 wickets for just 7 runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, etching his name into cricketing folklore. Since then, he has consistently delivered under pressure, most notably in the 2023 WTC Final against India, where his pivotal wickets of Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja were instrumental in securing Australia’s victory .
What sets Boland apart is his exceptional accuracy and ability to extract seam movement, making him a formidable force, especially in English conditions. His relentless line and length, combined with subtle variations, often leave batsmen guessing and can lead to crucial breakthroughs .
Despite the stiff competition for a spot in the playing XI, with Hazlewood returning from injury and vying for inclusion, Boland’s recent performances make a compelling case. In the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he showcased his prowess by taking 21 wickets in just six innings, including a match-winning 10-wicket haul in Sydney .
Moreover, Boland’s familiarity with the English pitches, having played county cricket for Durham in 2024, adds another layer to his suitability for the Lord’s encounter. His experience in these conditions could prove invaluable against a formidable South African batting lineup.
As Australia aims to clinch back-to-back WTC titles, the selectors face a challenging decision. However, Boland’s track record in high-stakes matches, combined with his adaptability and form, positions him as a potential game-changer. If given the nod, he could very well be the linchpin in Australia’s bowling attack, steering them towards another historic triumph.