“Just behind Bumrah among the best bowlers”

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has showered praise on South African pacer Kagiso Rabada for his outstanding performance in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 final against Australia. Vaughan, referring to Rabada as a ‘world-class bowler,’ ranked him just behind the World No. 1 Test bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

Rabada showcased his skills by taking nine wickets in the championship match, including a crucial five-wicket haul, as Temba Bavuma’s South African side clinched victory over Australia by five wickets, ending their 27-year-long ICC trophy drought.

In his column for Fox Sports, Vaughan expressed his admiration for Rabada’s bowling prowess, stating, “One thing that we must bear in mind is that South Africa have Kagiso Rabada, a genuinely world-class bowler who ruthlessly exploited Australia’s weaknesses. I’d place him alongside Pat Cummins and just behind Bumrah among the best bowlers in the world. England don’t have anyone who belongs in that bracket.”

Rabada currently holds the second position in the latest ICC Test rankings for bowlers. With 336 scalps in 71 Tests and 17 five-wicket hauls to his name, the 30-year-old has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of cricket.

Moving on to Australia’s future in Test cricket, Vaughan raised concerns about the potential retirement of senior players due to their age. With players like Usman Khawaja (38), Nathan Lyon (37), Steve Smith (36), Scott Boland (36), Josh Hazlewood (34), and Pat Cummins (32) nearing the twilight of their careers, Vaughan speculated that Australia might face a period of transition post the Ashes 2025.

“I look at Australia and wonder if they are heading towards a barren period like they had around the 2010/11 Ashes. Three great players retired at the end of the 2006/07 Ashes, and a load more followed not long after. A great generation can retire all at once,” Vaughan wrote in his column.

The upcoming Ashes series in 2025-26, scheduled to be held in Australia from November 21, 2025, to January 8, 2026, could potentially mark the beginning of a new era for Australian cricket. Vaughan suggested that tough decisions might have to be made by the management to ensure a smooth transition from the current crop of players to the next generation.

In conclusion, Vaughan’s insights into Rabada’s brilliance and Australia’s future in Test cricket provide a thought-provoking perspective on the evolving landscape of international cricket. As the sport continues to witness new talents emerge and seasoned players bid farewell, the dynamics of the game are set to undergo significant changes in the years to come.