By Kevin Rademeyer.
Johannesburg, South Africa — With their sights set on making history, the Proteas men’s Test team departed for London on Friday night to contest the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
A heartfelt send-off at SA’s Bryanston headquarters captured the national spirit, as former greats, passionate fans, and Castle Lager South Africa’s iconic supporter brand, rallied behind the team.
The final, scheduled to begin on June 11, will see South Africa face Australia at the Home of Cricket.
The occasion marks another proud chapter in Castle Lager’s 30-year journey of backing the Proteas, with the beloved beer brand once again featured on the team’s kit sleeve.
As South Africa prepares for its first-ever WTC Final, legends of the game including Jacques Kallis, Graeme Smith, Vernon Philander, and Makhaya Ntini—offered words of encouragement, reminiscing about their own Lord’s experiences.
The emotion of the send-off reinforced the gravity of the moment.
“There have been plenty of challenges along the way, but our focus is to go there and win,” said Proteas captain Temba Bavuma. “It’s a great opportunity to make history for our country.”
Coach Shukri Conrad emphasised the importance of preparation, noting the team will play a warm-up match against Zimbabwe in Sussex on June 3. “Every final is another shot at a medal, and we are determined to break our ICC trophy drought,” Conrad said.
Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada, who famously took five wickets at Lord’s in 2022, arrives in London with both form and focus. Speaking candidly following a recent drug-related controversy, Rabada said: “It’s the territory we’re in. The focus is simple: go there and perform. I’d rather win than get on the honours board again, but both would be nice.”
At 30, Rabada is expected to lead the bowling attack against a formidable Australian side known for their aggression, a challenge he welcomes. “Any media or verbal abuse? It’s normal. It won’t slow me down.”
For Castle Lager, this moment is more than just a sponsorship, it’s a legacy. Celebrating 130 years in 2025, Castle Lager remains deeply woven into South Africa’s sporting fabric. “Castle Lager is the quintessential super fan of South Africa, “said Vaughan Croeser, Vice-President of Marketing at SAB. “We’ve stood with the Proteas since 1992, and being on their sleeve for the WTC Final is a milestone that shows our continued commitment.”
In celebration, Castle Lager has launched fan competitions, limited-edition Castle x Proteas jerseys in collaboration with Macron, and will host viewing parties across the country to bring the nation together.
Lord’s has always held a special place in South African cricket folklore, from Kepler Wessels’ trailblazing century in the ’90s to Graeme Smith’s record-breaking 259. Legends like Ntini, Amla, Donald, and Philander have all carved their names into the hallowed honours boards.
Now, the 2025 Proteas have their own chance to etch history. As they prepare to walk through the iconic Long Room and into the arena where Test legends are made, South Africa’s hopes travel with them—stitched into their shirts, carried by their hearts, and toasted by Castle Lager.