WTC 2021 Final: New Zealand vs India at Southampton
A deep look at the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final — New Zealand's disciplined bowling and Williamson's leadership defeating a formidable India side at Southampton.
The ICC World Test Championship final between New Zealand and India at the Ageas Bowl, Southampton in June 2021 was a tightly-contested match that lasted six days including a reserve day. New Zealand's pace attack, patience, and Kane Williamson's leadership underpinned a famous eight-wicket victory.
India's First Innings Collapse
India were in a strong position at 146 for 3 when Kyle Jamieson intervened. The tall New Zealand seamer swung the new ball late and took 5 for 31, dismissing India for 217. Jamieson's steep bounce and late movement caused repeated problems for the Indian middle order throughout the match.
New Zealand's Lead and India's Fight
New Zealand posted 249 in their first innings, a lead of 32. India fought back in their second innings — Ravichandran Ashwin scored 22 and Virat Kohli contributed 44 — to set New Zealand 139. It appeared a small but challenging target on a pitch showing variable bounce.
New Zealand's Chase
New Zealand opener Devon Conway (52 not out) and Kane Williamson (52) put on 96 for the second wicket, making the chase look comfortable. India's bowlers Bumrah and Shami could not find the decisive breakthroughs. New Zealand won with 8 wickets to spare, giving captain Williamson a crowning achievement in Test cricket.
Frequently asked questions
What was the target in the WTC 2021 final?
New Zealand were set 139 to win by India in the fourth innings. They reached the target comfortably, winning by 8 wickets with Devon Conway and Kane Williamson making half-centuries.
Who was the key bowler in the WTC 2021 final?
Kyle Jamieson was the key bowler with 5 for 31 in India's first innings and match figures of 7 for 65 — the decisive individual performance of the WTC 2021 final.