Will the ICC's USD 3.6 Million Prize Money for WTC Winners Change the Game?

Synopsis
The ICC has unveiled an unprecedented prize structure for the WTC final, with winners set to earn USD 3.6 million. As Australia and South Africa prepare for this monumental clash, cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating a thrilling showdown at Lord’s.
Key Takeaways
- The WTC final's prize money has significantly increased.
- Australia and South Africa will compete for the title at Lord's.
- The ICC aims to elevate the status of Test cricket.
- Fans globally are excited about the upcoming clash.
- Both teams have shown outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
New Delhi, May 15 (NationPress) - With the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) final approaching between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that the victors of this singular match will receive a prize that is twice what was awarded in the previous two editions.
The total prize fund for the WTC 2023-25 cycle stands at USD 5.76 million, significantly more than what was allocated in earlier tournaments. The champions will take home USD 3.6 million (approximately 30,79,48,931 Indian rupees), a substantial increase from the USD 1.6 million given to the winners of both the 2021 and 2023 editions.
On the other hand, the runners-up will receive USD 2.16 million (around 18,47,96,390 Indian rupees), up from USD 800,000. India, who finished third in this cycle, will earn 12,31,98,048 rupees. “This third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship has been compelling, culminating in a final that was only determined towards the end,” stated an ICC representative.
“The competition has highlighted extraordinary performances from players across various teams, culminating in a final between these two outstanding squads - a genuine celebration of cricket.”
“I’m confident that fans at Lord’s and viewers around the globe will witness some elite cricket in this esteemed format when Australia and South Africa clash less than a month from now. On behalf of the ICC, I wish both teams the best as they prepare for this significant match,” remarked ICC Chairman Jay Shah.
South Africa topped the WTC standings for 2023-25 and secured their final spot at Lord’s through series victories over Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, alongside a drawn series against India. They aim to capture their first WTC title.
“We're thrilled to have reached the World Test Championship Final, which presents a wonderful opportunity to win an ICC title. Everyone realizes the significance of Test cricket, and the World Test Championship provides context to this essential format,” said Temba Bavuma, the South African captain.
“Lord’s is an ideal venue for this grand event, and we’re all committed to giving our best against Australia. Excitement is building with less than a month remaining, and I’m certain fans worldwide will be following both teams' journeys come June 11,” he continued.
Australia secured their place in the final with a 3-1 victory over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Their campaign also featured a 3-0 sweep of Pakistan, along with series wins against New Zealand and Sri Lanka. Australia aims to make history as the first two-time champions of the tournament.
“We are immensely proud to defend the World Test Championship title, especially at Lord’s. This is a tribute to everyone who worked diligently over the past two years to reach the final - a remarkable honor for all of us,” stated Australian captain Pat Cummins.
“We eagerly anticipate reuniting in England in just a few weeks and the challenge that South Africa presents at the home of cricket,” he added.