ICC World Test Championship: A Thrilling Journey of Test Cricket Excellence

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has revolutionized the way the cricketing world views Test matches. Designed to bring meaning, structure, and competitive edge to the bilateral Test series, this premier competition has become the crown jewel of red-ball cricket. As the third edition heads into an electrifying finale between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s, let’s revisit the highlights, evolution, and drama that have shaped the ICC World Test Championship story so far.

WTC 2023-25: Australia vs South Africa – The Final Showdown

Fans of cricket around the world are eagerly anticipating the ICC World Test Championship Final, scheduled for 11 June 2025 at the legendary Lord’s Cricket Ground. The defending champions, Australia, will face a formidable South African side that topped the table during the 2023-25 cycle.

South Africa’s Dominant Run

The Proteas displayed consistent excellence, securing the top position with 69.44% of points won across six Test series. Their record includes 8 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses—an impressive testament to their resurgence in red-ball cricket.

Australia’s Unbeaten Grit

Australia, under the leadership of Andrew McDonald, proved to be the only unbeaten team throughout the cycle. Despite a 10-point deduction due to a slow over-rate violation, they finished second with a points percentage of 67.54%. Their overall record stood at 13 wins, 2 draws, and 4 losses across 19 matches.

The two-time ICC World Test Championship finalists ascend to the top of the standings 👀#WTC25 | Details 👇https://t.co/Zf63frP96w

— ICC (@ICC) March 3, 2024

Why the ICC World Test Championship Was Created

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) was launched to restore significance and provide a defined framework to bilateral Test cricket matches. For years, Test matches often lacked broader context, especially when the outcome of a series was already decided. The WTC addressed this by turning every Test match into a points-earning opportunity.

By doing so, the WTC has given teams and fans alike a reason to invest emotionally and strategically in every single Test. Similar to how the ICC World Cup elevates the ODI and T20I formats, the WTC offers a prestigious pinnacle for Test cricket.

How the WTC Format Works

• The ICC World Test Championship includes the top nine teams based on the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings.
• The participating teams consist of Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.
• Cycle Structure: Each team plays six series—three at home and three away—over a two-year period. The number of matches per series can vary from two to five.

Points Allocation:

• Win: 12 points
• Draw: 4 points
• Tie: 6 points
• Loss: 0 points
• Penalty: Points can be deducted for slow over rates.
• League Table: Standings are determined by the percentage of points won, not total points, to maintain fairness across uneven series lengths.
• The Final: The top two teams face off in a one-off Test final to determine the champion.

The Origins: From Idea to Reality

The idea of a unified Test championship was initially proposed in 1996 by the renowned West Indies cricketer Clive Lloyd. Over the next two decades, discussions continued among stakeholders. Finally, the ICC announced in July 2019 that the WTC would launch, beginning with the Ashes series that same year.

James Anderson, England’s all-time leading Test wicket-taker, perfectly captured the sentiment during the launch:

“Test cricket represents the highest level of our game… Each match has always been important, but now it carries even greater significance.”

Memorable WTC Finals So Far

2021: New Zealand Clinch the Inaugural Title

The first-ever WTC Final in 2021 was held at the Rose Bowl in Southampton between India and New Zealand. Rain interruptions led to the use of a reserve day to guarantee a conclusive result. New Zealand bowled India out for 217, then responded with 249, taking a modest lead.

In their second innings, India managed only 170 runs, setting a target of 139 runs for the opposing team. Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor calmly guided New Zealand to an eight-wicket victory, marking their first ICC title since 2000.

Williamson described it as:

“A proud moment in our history… just to stick to what we do well and come away with the win.”

2023: Australia Complete Their ICC Collection

Australia stamped their authority in the second WTC Final, played at The Oval in London. They secured a dominant 209-run victory over India, becoming the first men’s team to claim every major ICC title.

Highlights included a brilliant 163 by Travis Head, propelling Australia to a massive first-innings total of 469. India replied with 296, and Australia declared their second innings at 270/8, setting a daunting target of 444. India managed just 234, handing Australia a historic win.

Pat Cummins reflected:

“This is the format we love the most… Winning here brings the greatest sense of fulfillment.”

WTC’s Growing Legacy in Test Cricket

With two gripping finals and a format that’s now entrenched in international cricket, the WTC has succeeded in breathing new life into Test cricket. It offers high stakes, global attention, and a defined path to glory in the traditional format.

As the 2023-25 cycle nears its climax at Lord’s, the WTC continues to showcase the resilience, skill, and prestige of Test cricket. South Africa aims to cap their dominant campaign with a title win, while Australia looks to defend its crown and etch its name further into cricketing folklore.

The Future of Test Cricket Looks Brighter

The ICC World Test Championship has solidified its place as a central pillar in international cricket. It motivates players and fans with drama and gives the sport a much-needed competitive edge in the longest format. As the showdown unfolds, the eyes of the cricketing world will be fixed on Lord’s—where legends are born and history is written.

Let the battle for Test cricket supremacy begin!