The World Test Championship (WTC) final at Lord’s has been nothing short of a dramatic contest, filled with momentum shifts and standout performances from both South Africa and Australia. Among the many turning points on Day 3, one of the most significant was Lungi Ngidi’s prized wicket of Australian veteran Steve Smith.

Ngidi, known for his ability to strike in crucial moments, delivered a well-directed ball that trapped Smith plumb in front. The former Australian skipper, who had played a composed knock of 66 in the first innings, was dismissed for just 13 in the second innings. His brief stay at the crease lasted 25 deliveries and included a solitary boundary. The delivery proved too deceptive for Smith, who misjudged the line and length, resulting in a clean leg-before dismissal.

Speaking after the day’s play, Ngidi revealed that dismissing a player of Smith’s calibre in a match of this magnitude was deeply satisfying. “I think because of the stage that we’re playing on, that’s probably the best wicket I could’ve gotten,” he said.