Ryan Rickelton is ready for the WTC Final 2025 after learning from the IPL 2025 experience

South African wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton has shed light on how his recent stint in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) will prove valuable in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC Final). Rickelton, who made his debut IPL appearance this season for the Mumbai Indians (MI), believes the experience of playing in high-pressure environments and against world-class bowlers will give him an edge in the red-ball format. The left-handed batter delivered a commendable performance for MI, scoring 388 runs across 14 matches at an impressive strike rate of 150.97. Opening the innings alongside veteran Rohit Sharma, Rickelton showcased not only aggression but also consistency at the top, earning praise for his adaptability and temperament.

Ryan Rickelton set to make full use of his IPL 2025 experience in the WTC Final 2025

As he prepares to face Australia in the WTC Final at Lord’s, Rickelton said that the IPL helped him sharpen his skills and mental readiness for big-match situations. The exposure to different match conditions, packed stadiums, and elite bowling attacks, he added, was ideal preparation for the grand finale of the Test championship. The Proteas batter is now focused on translating his white-ball success into the traditional format, as South Africa looks to clinch their maiden WTC title.

“There is no currency other than runs and batters take confidence out of putting in good performance runs as well. But I have also taken quite a lot of confidence out of IPL too, just spending time in different conditions, but also putting in some decent performances with really talented players around the world,” stated South Africa's wicket-keeper batter Ryan Rickelton. 

South African batter Ryan Rickelton is optimistic about ending the country’s long-standing ICC trophy drought by clinching the World Test Championship title. The Proteas, who are making their first-ever appearance in a WTC final, are set to face defending champions Australia in the highly anticipated summit clash at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, starting June 11.

Rickelton, who recently made a mark in the IPL 2025 with Mumbai Indians, emphasized that while the excitement is undeniable, he is consciously trying not to get too caught up in the pressure of the big occasion. The 28-year-old admitted that he is doing his best to stay grounded and focus on his preparation rather than the magnitude of the event.

Reflecting on his previous red-ball experience in England during the 2022 tour, Rickelton acknowledged that playing in English conditions can be challenging. However, he believes the learnings from that tour will help him remain composed and better equipped this time around. The left-hander hopes to bring calmness to his approach and translate the knowledge gained into valuable performances on the field. With South Africa aiming to make history, Rickelton’s focus is on contributing meaningfully and staying mentally balanced on cricket’s grandest Test stage.

“There is no doubt that it all contributes. But, again, it is a new day. It is a new dawn, I guess, for all of us. And hopefully, I can take those past experiences and those learnings and try replicating them next week. What a grand opportunity to represent South Africa to be in a final as well and have a crack at the mace,” Rickelton added. 

Since making his Test debut against Bangladesh in 2022, South African wicketkeeper-batter Ryan Rickelton has quietly built an impressive foundation in red-ball cricket. In just 10 matches, the left-hander has amassed 616 runs, including two centuries, showcasing both composure and potential at the international level. While he has shown promise against several teams, the upcoming World Test Championship Final will mark his first red-ball encounter against Australia — a significant challenge given the Aussies’ formidable bowling attack and big-match pedigree.

As South Africa gears up for its maiden appearance in a WTC final, they will draw confidence from their relatively strong record against Australia in recent years. Over the last five Test series between the two sides, the Proteas have emerged victorious in three, indicating their competitiveness in this high-profile rivalry. However, Australia gained the upper hand in their most recent red-ball encounter — a three-match series held during the 2022-23 season — where they clinched the series 2-0 at home.

Despite that setback, the Proteas will be keen to turn the tables at Lord’s. With a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent like Rickelton, South Africa aims to break its ICC trophy drought and etch its name in the history books. For Rickelton, the final not only offers a shot at glory but also a chance to prove himself on the biggest stage against the reigning champions. All eyes will be on how he handles the pressure and adapts to the elite challenge posed by Australia.