2021 World Test Championship Final: New Zealand Win
New Zealand became the inaugural World Test Championship winners in 2021, beating India by 8 wickets at Southampton. Kyle Jamieson's 5/31 and Ross Taylor's calm chase defined the match.
The inaugural ICC World Test Championship Final was played at Hampshire Bowl, Southampton, in June 2021 — with a reserve day built in due to weather uncertainty. New Zealand, captained by Kane Williamson, defeated India by 8 wickets to become the first WTC champions. It was a result that reflected New Zealand's consistent Test cricket over two years of qualifying.
Match Summary
India batted first and made 217. New Zealand's Kyle Jamieson took 5/31, exploiting overcast Southampton conditions perfectly. New Zealand replied with 249 — a lead of 32. India's second innings was more competitive: Kohli 44, Pujara 15, but the lower order could not push the total past 170. New Zealand chased 139 — a target they reached for the loss of 2 wickets, Conway scoring 52 not out and Williamson finishing 52 not out.
Kyle Jamieson's Influence
Jamieson — 6'8" tall with a sharp outswing — was almost unplayable in the morning sessions at Southampton. His 5/31 dismissed India's top five with variations of length and line that took advantage of the cloud cover and Duke's ball movement. At the other end, Trent Boult and Tim Southee provided relentless accuracy. India's innings never reached the fluency they needed to post a match-winning first-innings total.
Devon Conway's Match-Defining Half-Century
Conway, in only his third Test, anchored the New Zealand chase on a final day that could have been nervy. He batted 136 minutes for 52 not out, driving India's seamers through the covers and defending anything short of a length outside off stump. Williamson joined him and both batters finished unbeaten — New Zealand needed no contribution from Ross Taylor, who had been expected to play a key role in the chase.
What the WTC Means
The WTC cycle rewards consistent Test performance across two years rather than a single tournament result. New Zealand had performed at the top of the standings through series wins against India, England, Pakistan, and West Indies. The mace — the WTC trophy — was the first world title in any format for New Zealand men's Test cricket.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2021 World Test Championship Final?
New Zealand won the inaugural WTC Final, beating India by 8 wickets at Southampton. It was their first world title in any cricket format.
Who was the Player of the Match in the 2021 WTC Final?
Kyle Jamieson won the Player of the Match award for his 5/31 in India's first innings and 2/30 in the second innings.
Where was the 2021 WTC Final played?
The 2021 WTC Final was played at the Ageas Bowl (Hampshire Bowl) in Southampton, England.