With two months to go before the final of the ICC World Test Championship, both South Africa and Australia are finalising their teams.

The final will take place at the Lord’s on June 11.

South Africa's batting lineup seems mostly settled. Aiden Markram will likely open alongside Tony de Zorzi, whose recent domestic form has been impossible to ignore. Rising star Tristan Stubbs looks set for the crucial No. 4 spot, with skipper Temba Bavuma – now comfortable at number 5 – following him.

The middle order gains stability through wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne and the seasoned David Bedingham.

The versatile Marco Jansen brings valuable all-round credentials, expected to join pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada in a threatening attack. The Proteas' main headache remains their third seamer choice.

The fiery Gerald Coetzee is in contention if his body holds up, while young leftie Kwena Maphaka and Corbin Bosch – fresh from an eye-catching Test debut – offer compelling alternatives. Spin duties will likely fall to the reliable Keshav Maharaj.

The defending champions Australia face fewer selection puzzles. Usman Khawaja should open with teenage prospect Sam Konstas, allowing Travis Head to slide back to his preferred No. No.5 position.

The trusty duo of Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith anchor the batting, while Cameron Green could reclaim the No. 6 spot if he's recovered fully.

Australia's pace arsenal features Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and either Josh Hazlewood or Scott Boland – a luxury of riches offering both variety and know-how.

Hazlewood boasts impressive Lord's credentials, though Boland was the standout in last year's final. Nathan Lyon will handle the spin department with Alex Carey keeping wicket.

Both sides pack quality and depth, though final calls might depend on typical English summer conditions and how the Lord's pitch looks. The battle for cricket's ultimate Test prize begins well before the players take the field – in selection rooms where every choice could prove decisive.