LONDON (AP) — South Africa won the World Test Championship against titleholder Australia by five wickets after knocking off the last 69 runs required on the fourth morning of the final on Saturday. The Proteas achieved their first major cricket title in 27 years, sparking celebrations at Lord’s.

Australia dominated the early stages of the match with strong batting and disciplined bowling. Skipper Temba Bavuma added a steady 66, while Kyle Verreynne also made a key contribution. Kagiso Rabada delivered a match-winning performance with the ball,

To be at Lord's on an increasingly glorious sunny Saturday was to witness a nation coming into full bloom. The morning mood was cloudy, and slightly cowed, as South Africa's batters did the absolute needful while the pressure was still too real.