The Road to the World Test Championship Final: Who Will Claim the Glory?

Cricket fans around the world are buzzing with excitement as the race to secure a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final intensifies. After a gripping series in Pakistan, England’s hopes have been dashed, leaving their journey toward next summer’s WTC final a distant dream. Yet, the thrill is far from over, as five cricketing giants—Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka—still have their eyes firmly set on reaching Lord's.

The stakes are high, and every remaining Test match could be the difference between triumph and disappointment. As the defending champions, Australia are determined to defend their title. However, India, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, and South Africa are also gearing up for the challenge, each calculating their path to glory.

How the WTC Works

The World Test Championship, introduced by the ICC to make Test cricket more competitive, operates on a two-year cycle. Teams play six series, three at home and three away. Every win earns 12 points, while ties and draws earn six and four points respectively. However, since teams play a different number of matches, their standings are determined by the percentage of points earned rather than total points. Teams can also face deductions for slow over-rates, adding an extra layer of complexity to their qualification journey.

The Current Picture

With the WTC 2023-2025 cycle nearing its climax, let’s take a look at how each contender can book their place in the final:

India

India’s back-to-back losses against New Zealand have made their path trickier. To keep their hopes alive, India needs to win the third Test against the Kiwis and at least three matches in their upcoming series against Australia. Doing so would seal their spot in the final for the third consecutive time.

Australia

Australia’s journey is straightforward. Five wins from their last seven matches will guarantee their place in the final at Lord’s. Should they falter, their fate will depend on other teams’ performances, but three wins against India could be the key.

Sri Lanka

The equation is clear for Sri Lanka as well: win all four of their remaining matches, and they’ll be headed to Lord’s. Facing South Africa and Australia won’t be easy, but Sri Lanka’s resolve is unshakeable. Even if they lose one match, a top-two finish might still be within reach.

New Zealand

New Zealand, the inaugural WTC champions, remain in the hunt after an impressive series win in India. Their fate, however, is less certain. Winning all four of their remaining Tests—including three against England—won’t necessarily guarantee them a final spot, but it will put them in strong contention.

South Africa

South Africa’s chances hinge on perfection. Winning all five of their remaining matches is a must if they want a sure ticket to the final. Even with four wins and a draw, their hopes will rest on the results of others.

When is the WTC Final?

The grand finale will take place at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground in England, starting on 11 June 2025. It’s a moment every Test team dreams of—a shot at immortality, to be crowned World Test champions.

With thrilling matches ahead and uncertainties in the air, fans are sure to witness an epic battle for a place in the final.