[Watch] AB de Villiers’ Emotional Reaction to Aiden Markram’s Century in WTC Final Melts the Internet
AB de Villiers was seen celebrating Aiden Markram’s century at Lord’s, and the heartwarming moment has gone viral online.
Former South African star AB de Villiers was spotted cheering passionately from the stands at Lord’s on Day 3 of the WTC 2025 Final after Aiden Markram brought up a historic century for South Africa.
The moment, caught on camera, has gone viral on social media, capturing the emotion of the day for Proteas fans around the world.
Markram Makes History, ABD Steals the Show in the Stands
Aiden Markram reached his hundred in style with a boundary on the 156th ball he faced, marking the first-ever century by a South African batter in the final of any ICC event. Watching from the stands, AB de Villiers was seen rising to his feet, clapping and celebrating the special knock, visibly thrilled for his fellow countryman.
The video of de Villiers’ celebration quickly made rounds online, as fans rejoiced in the presence of one South African great applauding another. Markram’s gritty ton helped put South Africa in a strong position in the final innings of the Test.
Partnership With Bavuma Puts Proteas on Brink of Glory
Markram had a disappointing start to the match with a duck in the first innings, but his second-innings knock has helped push South Africa closer to ending their long wait for an ICC trophy. He formed a steady 61-run stand with Wiaan Mulder after losing opener Ryan Rickelton early.
But it was the unbroken partnership with captain Temba Bavuma that changed the course of the match. The pair added 143 runs for the third wicket, taking South Africa to 213/2 by stumps on Day 3. With just 69 runs needed and eight wickets in hand, the Proteas are now favourites to lift the WTC 2025 title.
Rabada Leads With the Ball
Kagiso Rabada also played a big role with the ball, picking up nine wickets in the match (5 in the first innings and 4 in the second). He received support from Marco Jansen and Lungi Ngidi, who chipped in with key spells to restrict Australia to scores of 212 and 207.
South Africa now stands just one good session away from their first ICC trophy since 1998, and if they win, this final will go down as one of the most emotional moments in their cricket history — made even more special with AB de Villiers cheering them on from the stands.
