South Africa's Pacers Shine in First Session

South Africa's pacers, led by Kagiso Rabada, were on top form in the first session of the World Test Championship final at Lord's. Rabada and Marco Jansen struck twice apiece, leaving Australia in a spot at 63/4 by lunchtime on Day 1.

Rabada Leads the Attack

Rabada bowled with discipline and precision, taking 2 wickets for 9 runs in 6 overs. He was well-supported by Jansen, who also picked up 2 wickets for 27 runs in his 6-over spell. The new-ball pair bowled three maidens in a row, putting pressure on the Australian batsmen.

Australia's Top Order Struggles

Labuschagne got Australia going with a few boundaries off Jansen, but Rabada soon got his reward when he had Usman Khawaja edging to first slip. The Cameron Green experiment at No.3 failed as he fell to Rabada, caught by Aiden Markram at second slip.

Smith and Labuschagne Fight Back

Steve Smith and Labuschagne then struck a couple of boundaries, overcoming an excellent spell from Rabada and Lungi Ngidi. Smith glanced a loose ball from Ngidi for a boundary and also struck a drive past point.

Jansen Strikes Again

It was Jansen who got the breakthrough when he returned into the attack, getting Labuschagne to edge to the 'keeper. Travis Head and Smith then hit a boundary each off Jansen as they started the recovery work.

Brief Scores

Australia 67/4 (Steven Smith 26*; Kagiso Rabada 2-9, Marco Jansen 2-27) vs South Africa.