How Does the WTC Continue to Revitalize Test Cricket? Jay Shah Discusses the 2025-27 Championship Cycle
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Synopsis
The excitement surrounding the World Test Championship is palpable as ICC Chair Jay Shah reflects on the recently concluded cycle and anticipates the upcoming series. With thrilling matches set to unfold, the next chapter promises to further elevate the status of Test cricket. Will the new cycle bring fresh challenges and unforgettable moments?
Key Takeaways
- New Cycle: The 2025-27 WTC cycle begins with exciting matches.
- Competitive Spirit: Test cricket continues to thrive with a high level of competition.
- Global Appeal: Strong viewership and attendance demonstrate the popularity of the format.
- Point System: The points percentage system remains in effect for leaderboard standings.
- Future Matches: Anticipation builds for key series, notably India vs. England.
Dubai, June 17 (NationPress) Following the thrilling finale of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, where South Africa claimed the trophy at the historic Lord's last week, ICC Chair Jay Shah expressed his anticipation for the upcoming chapter of the WTC and extended his best wishes to players embarking on this new journey.
The next cycle is set to launch with a series of exciting matches. The initial contest of the 2025-27 cycle features Sri Lanka hosting Bangladesh in a two-Test series beginning on June 17, shortly followed by a much-anticipated five-Test clash between England and India.
The fierce battle will see India and England clash at prestigious venues like Headingley, Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval in the weeks ahead.
“The third season of the World Test Championship concluded in spectacular fashion at Lord’s as Australia and South Africa showcased a thrilling match. We eagerly await the next chapter. This Championship is revitalizing Test cricket, with four of the nine participating nations having reached the Final in the first three cycles,” Shah stated in an ICC release.
“Providing context for players and fans, alongside a high level of competition, is essential. The remarkable attendance at Lord’s and the global viewership for the Final demonstrate the enduring appeal of Test cricket. I extend my gratitude to the Member Boards for their unwavering support of this thrilling concept and wish players all the success as they embark on their journey towards the next Final in 2027,” he added.
The defeated finalists, Australia, will kick off their quest to reclaim the WTC title in the Caribbean, facing West Indies in a three-Test series for the chance to lift the Frank Worrell Trophy.
Consistent with previous cycles, nine teams will compete in the WTC, with each nation facing six other teams—three at home and three away—over the two-year duration.
Australia will play 11 matches at home, which includes a highly anticipated Ashes series against England later this year, along with four Tests against New Zealand, and the same number of matches away.
England will also engage in 11 Tests on home soil and 10 matches abroad, including a three-Test tour against the WTC 2025 finalists, South Africa, in December 2026.
India is scheduled to play 18 matches in this cycle, evenly split between home and away games, while the 2021 champions, New Zealand, will participate in 16.
The points percentage system employed in previous editions will govern the leaderboard, with teams earning 12 points for a win, six for a tie, and four for a draw.
Point of View
It is clear that Test cricket is experiencing a renaissance. The competitive spirit and global viewership reflect a growing enthusiasm for the format. As a national editor, we must continue to support initiatives that enhance the stature of Test cricket while keeping fans engaged and informed.
NationPress
17/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the World Test Championship?
The World Test Championship is a league competition for Test cricket organized by the ICC, where teams compete over a set period to earn points and qualify for the final.
How do teams earn points in the WTC?
Teams earn 12 points for a win, 6 points for a tie, and 4 points for a draw in the World Test Championship.
Who won the last WTC cycle?
South Africa won the last World Test Championship cycle, defeating Australia in the final held at Lord's.
When does the next WTC cycle start?
The next World Test Championship cycle begins with a two-Test series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh on June 17, 2025.
How many teams participate in the WTC?
Nine teams participate in the World Test Championship, competing in a series of matches over two years.
