I Can’t Put into Words: Lungi Ngidi on Taking Steve Smith’s Wicket
The second day of the WTC 2025 final between South Africa and Australia was a thrilling affair, with both teams giving it their all on the field. For the Proteas, Lungi Ngidi was the standout bowler, picking up crucial wickets and limiting Australia’s scoring opportunities. Among his notable scalps was that of Australian veteran Steven Smith, a batsman known for his exceptional skills and ability to take the game away from the opposition.
After the day’s play, Ngidi spoke to ICC Digital about his thoughts on taking Smith’s wicket, and the emotions that came with it. “It probably ranks very high up there for me. I can’t put into words how I felt about taking that wicket. Such a relief,” the South African pacer said, still visibly pumped up from the excitement of the day’s play.
Ngidi’s words are a testament to the intensity and pressure of international cricket, where every wicket counts and the margin for error is minimal. The feeling of taking a high-profile wicket like Smith’s is a special one, and it’s understandable that Ngidi is struggling to find the right words to describe it.
Smith is widely regarded as one of the best batsmen in the world, with a reputation for being difficult to dismiss. His ability to rotate the strike, play defensively, and take the game away from the opposition with his attacking shots makes him a nightmare to bowl to. For Ngidi to have picked up his wicket is a significant achievement, and it’s clear that he’s incredibly proud of the effort.
One of the key factors that contributed to Ngidi’s success was his ability to mix up his pace and length. He used his pace to great effect, bowling short deliveries that Smith struggled to get away, while also using his slower balls to keep the Australian batsman guessing. The variation in his bowling was a major factor in Smith’s dismissal, and it’s a testament to Ngidi’s intelligence and understanding of the game.
Ngidi’s partnership with his fellow bowlers was also crucial in restricting Australia’s scoring opportunities. The South African bowling unit worked tirelessly, using their collective skills to build pressure and create opportunities for themselves. The partnership between Ngidi and his teammates was a key factor in the Proteas’ success on the day, and it’s clear that they’re all feeding off each other’s energy and enthusiasm.
As the WTC 2025 final continues, fans around the world will be eagerly waiting to see what the rest of the series has in store. With both teams giving it their all on the field, the competition is fierce and the intensity is palpable. For Ngidi and his teammates, the goal is clear: to win the series and bring the coveted World Test Championship to South Africa.
In the meantime, Ngidi’s comments about taking Smith’s wicket offer a glimpse into the mental and emotional demands of international cricket. The pressure to perform, the intensity of the competition, and the pride of taking a high-profile wicket like Smith’s are all factors that contribute to the unique challenges of playing at this level.
For fans of the game, watching Ngidi’s interview is a reminder of the magic of Test cricket. The slow-burning tension, the dramatic moments, and the endless possibilities make it a thrilling and unpredictable sport that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
As Ngidi’s words suggest, taking Steve Smith’s wicket is a moment that will stay with him for a long time. It’s a testament to the importance of this series, the pride that comes with playing for one’s country, and the joy of being part of a team that’s working towards a common goal.
For now, the WTC 2025 final continues, with both teams giving it their all on the field. As the series unfolds, fans around the world will be eagerly waiting to see what the rest of the competition has in store. With Ngidi and his teammates leading the charge, it’s clear that the Proteas are determined to bring the World Test Championship to South Africa.
