Shukri Conrad’s words touched the heart – ‘We created our own reality’
“Conrad: ‘We’re the world champions'” is not just a statement, but the result of a decade of hard work, struggle and self-belief. By defeating Australia in the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) final, South Africa not only won a trophy but also ended a 27-year drought. But the story behind this historic victory that touches the heart the most is that of coach Shukri Conrad.
1. The journey from Apartheid to becoming a world champion
Shukri Conrad’s relationship with cricket is not just as a coach but the voice of a generation that never made it to the national team. Many players like his father Saddik Conrad and Maharaj’s father were left out in the Apartheid era only because they became victims of apartheid. Today, saying “Conrad: ‘We’re the world champions'” means winning over that history.
2. Historic victory full of emotions
When South Africa defeated Australia at Lord’s ground, not only the scoreboard changed, an era ended. With just two runs left, coach Conrad remembered his father’s last wish – “I just want you to beat Australia one day.” And when this dream came true, there were tears in his eyes but pride in his heart.
The Proteas pose with the WTC mace at the Lord’s balcony 📸🏆🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/goz382Vx8k
— CricTracker (@Cricketracker) June 15, 2025
3. Strong selection despite questions
Thankfully, Conrad took some decisions as soon as he became the coach which were criticized – the return of Aiden Markram, captaincy to Temba Bavuma, a second chance to Verreynne, and the inclusion of Lungi Ngidi in the final. But every time his self-confidence won. “Conrad: ‘We’re the world champions'” also matters because every player contributed and united the team.
4. Victory amid criticism
Many questions were raised about South Africa’s path to the final of the World Test Championship. It was said that they did not play against any of the ‘Big Three’ (England, Australia, India). But after beating Australia in the final, Conrad replied – “Now we beat them. And yes, Conrad: ‘We’re the world champions’.”
5. Hope for rebirth of Test cricket
The presence of more than 100,000 spectators in a little over three days at Lord’s showed that Test cricket is alive. Every moment of the final had twists, emotions, and the real spirit of cricket. This is what Conrad hopes – “I want people to love Test and first-class cricket again.”
What does the future hold for South Africa?
There are no more home Test matches this season, there will be a break due to the SA20 League and the World Cup. But next year they will play 8 Tests against England and Australia. Till then the fans will have to wait, but when this team takes the field again, everyone will say – “Conrad: ‘We’re the world champions'”
Also Read : Temba Bavuma still unbeaten as captain of South Africa won the WTC 2025