When South Africa clinched the inaugural World Test Championship by defeating Australia at Lord’s, former pace ace Dale Steyn couldn’t hold back his emotion. A video capturing the cricket legend wearing his Test cap, shedding tears and giving a triumphant thumbs-up has swiftly gone viral echoing the significance of this historic moment.
A 27‑Year Wait Ends:
This victory ended a 27-year ICC title drought for South African cricket, a feat that eluded Steyn during his 93-Test career . As a 15-year-old, he had witnessed South Africa’s only previous ICC success the 1998 KnockOut Trophy making this win deeply personal and long-awaited.
The Viral Moment:
Dale Steyn in Tears when South Africa won the WTC 🥺❤️ pic.twitter.com/eNvFx6wBnT
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) June 15, 2025
Clutching his treasured Test cap, Steyn stood visibly moved in a candid interview, his eyes welling up before he found the strength to offer a thumbs-up a gesture that resonated with fans across the globe.
As reported by NDTV:
“What do you do, what do you say? It’s incredible… I’m extremely proud… I’ll take my son for a walk and life will carry on,” Steyn emotionally reflected.
Beyond Words:
Steyn lauded not only the current squad led by Temba Bavuma but also the balanced performance of bowlers and key players:
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Kagiso Rabada’s decisive wickets
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Aiden Markram’s compelling century (136)
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Bavuma’s match-clinching 66
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Even Australian stars like Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc were instrumental making it a fiercely contested final .
He added that the stadium atmosphere at Lord’s, surprisingly favorable to South Africa, boosted the side’s momentum.
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A Legacy Sealed:
For Steyn, whose playing years were marked by heartbreaking near-misses especially the 2015 World Cup semi-final loss this emotional outpouring reflects closure and jubilation.
The video symbolically captures not just a champion’s pride but the heartfelt connection between past and present generations of South African cricket.
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What happened: South Africa beat Australia by five wickets at Lord’s to win the World Test Championship.
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The reaction: Dale Steyn was seen tearful, emotional, holding his Test cap and giving a thumbs-up.
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Why it matters: This commemorates a 27-year ICC title drought and deep personal resonance for Steyn.
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Legacy connection: Symbolic closure for a legend alongside celebration of a new generation.
