WTC Final: Will ICC Chairman Jay Shah's Best Wishes Propel SA and Australia in the 'Ultimate Test' at Lord's?
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Synopsis
The ICC Chairman, Jay Shah, extends heartfelt wishes to both South Africa and Australia as they gear up for the World Test Championship final. The stakes are high, with riches and glory on the line. Who will emerge victorious in this thrilling showdown at Lord's?
Key Takeaways
- ICC Chairman Jay Shah expresses excitement for the WTC final.
- South Africa seeks their first ICC trophy in over 20 years.
- Australia aims to defend the WTC mace.
- Prize money has significantly increased from previous editions.
- Both teams have shown resilience throughout the tournament.
New Delhi, June 10 (NationPress) With the World Test Championship (WTC) final commencing this Wednesday, South Africa and Australia are poised to clash for the prestigious mace. The chairman of the International Cricket Council (ICC), Jay Shah, shared his enthusiasm for what promises to be an exciting matchup and extended his best wishes to both teams for the Ultimate Test.
The Australian team, led by Pat Cummins, aims to defend the mace they secured after triumphing over India in the previous WTC final at The Oval in June 2023. Conversely, South Africa is on a quest for their first ICC trophy in more than 20 years, spearheaded by Temba Bavuma.
On social media platform X, Shah expressed, "Eagerly anticipating an exciting contest in the @ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. Best of luck to both @ProteasMenCSA and @CricketAus in the Ultimate Test!"
The champion of the WTC 2023-25 will receive a whopping USD 3.6 million, significantly increased from the USD 1.6 million awarded during the 2021 and 2023 finals, while the runners-up will take home USD 2.16 million, a rise from USD 800,000.
South Africa's journey in the WTC began with a 1-1 series draw against India at home, followed by a 2-0 series loss to New Zealand. They bounced back with a 1-0 victory against the West Indies and secured 2-0 wins over both Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
A thrilling two-wicket victory against Pakistan at Centurion solidified their place in the final, as they concluded the series against Pakistan with a 2-0 win, marking their seventh consecutive Test victory in this cycle.
Meanwhile, the ICC No.1 ranked Australia kicked off their WTC Final journey with two initial victories in the Ashes, before England leveled the series 2-2. Australia then swept the home series against Pakistan, winning three Tests.
The Aussies slipped to second place in the WTC standings after a 1-1 draw with the West Indies, but rebounded with a 2-0 away sweep against New Zealand. They later faced India for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, which they clinched 3-1 after a decade.
Point of View
It is evident that both teams have shown remarkable resilience and skill throughout the tournament. As we stand on the brink of this exciting showdown, we must appreciate the dedication and prowess demonstrated by both South Africa and Australia. The match not only signifies a battle for the mace but also a testament to the evolution of Test cricket on the global stage.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prize money for the WTC final?
The winner of the WTC 2023-25 will receive USD 3.6 million, while the runners-up will earn USD 2.16 million.
Who are the captains of both teams?
Pat Cummins leads the Australian team, while Temba Bavuma is at the helm for South Africa.
When and where is the WTC final being held?
The WTC final is scheduled to start on Wednesday at Lord's, London.
How did South Africa qualify for the final?
South Africa secured their place in the final after winning seven consecutive Tests, including a crucial series victory against Pakistan.
What is the significance of the mace?
The mace symbolizes the championship title in Test cricket and is awarded to the winner of the World Test Championship.
