The team arrived in the English capital on Sunday, after spending the past week in Arundel preparing for the Test – although their build-up was somewhat hampered by rain. South Africa managed only one day of play in their four-day warm-up match against Zimbabwe, but remain upbeat about their readiness.

Despite not having played together in the longest format since January, the Proteas believe they have what it takes to adapt and perform in red-ball cricket. They’ll have a few more days of preparation in London before the final gets underway.

Aiden Markram in Arundel. Photo: Cricinfo

Proteas batter Aiden Markram said that playing a match of this magnitude at the iconic Lord’s is a special occasion, and the team is backing themselves to deliver.

“It’s a tricky one to answer – I feel like we’ve been doing pretty well in both formats,” Markram said.

“The Test side hasn’t had many games this year, so whenever we do play, there’s a lot of excitement and energy. Maybe that’s part of it – guys are really pumped up to play because it’s been a while.

“Obviously, different players come in depending on the format, but form and momentum are key when it comes to performances and results. It’s hard to pinpoint a specific reason, but we’re definitely up for it.”

Markram said the final has the feel of a World Cup decider and that the mood in camp has shifted now that they’re in London.

“It definitely has that World Cup final feel. Last week in Arundel was more relaxed – the guys were focused on sharpening their skills.

“Now that we’re here at the ground, there’s a real sense of purpose. You step onto that field and it hits you – this is why we’re here. The excitement is building, and we’ve got a few more days of hard work ahead before what should be a thrilling contest.”

The Proteas have a solid record at the Home of Cricket, which only adds to the anticipation. It’s arguably South Africa’s most significant Test match since readmission in 1991.

When the Proteas beat England by 356 runs at Lords in 1994. Photo: Cricinfo

Markram noted that playing at Lord’s brings a sense of history and prestige that’s hard to ignore.

“There are amazing memories attached to this place. Personally, I haven’t had the best performances here – I’ve only played two games at Lord’s, a Test and an ODI – but every time you walk away from here, it’s with a big smile.

“Everyone dreams of playing at Lord’s. To be doing it in a Test match is already special, and for it to be a final, well, that’s just the cherry on top.

“It’s the history of it all – walking through the members’ room, going down the stairs to the field, being in that changeroom where so many greats have sat in, is quite a cool thought.”

Play between South Africa and Australia at Lord’s is scheduled to start at 11:30 on Wednesday.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek cg