After decades of heartbreak and being branded “chokers” on the world stage, South Africa’s Test triumph at Lord’s – led by Aiden Markram’s gritty century and a Temba Bavuma half-century – offered a moment of powerful redemption.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Markram opened up about the emotional toll, the pressure of legacy, and the team’s determination to finally “get the job done.”
“It would be great to not have to hear it again. That’s for sure,” he said.
Markram didn’t shy away from the historical weight South Africa carried into this final, a burden made heavier by previous tournament collapses. But for him, the focus was never external.
“There’s always going to be external things that can motivate you, but it’s not your sole purpose for playing.”
Instead, the personal pain of past failures – like the recent T20 World Cup – fueled his internal drive.
“I thought a lot about the T20 World Cup last night and how hopeless I felt sitting on the side after getting out. I was like, I don’t want to sit there again.”
That determination turned into a career-defining innings — one that left Markram visibly emotional.
“The 100 happened, and a couple of tears leaked out that I was trying to fight… it’s been a bit of a roller coaster.”
He made it clear: this wasn’t about personal milestones. It was about finally delivering on the biggest stage, for the team and the country.
“I really just want to win stuff for South Africa now. The personal milestones… will never be a thing now.”
As his name echoed through Lord’s, the chants from South African fans marked a moment of unity, Ubuntu.
“To have Shosholoza and those sorts of songs ringing around Lord’s is… very awesome for us as South Africans to hear.”
For a generation of players and fans who’ve endured the heartbreak, Markram’s words summed it up best:
“To literally have got the job done and to get rid of that [tag] is quite a big thing for this team, I feel.”
The Proteas have a new C word that can be attached to its name, and that word is Champions.
