2021 World Test Championship Final: New Zealand's Historic Victory Over India
The 2021 ICC World Test Championship final at Southampton saw New Zealand defeat India by eight wickets in the first-ever WTC final — a milestone moment for Test cricket.
The Inaugural WTC Final
The 2021 ICC World Test Championship final was the culmination of the first WTC cycle (2019–2021). Held at the Hampshire Bowl in Southampton, England in June 2021, it was the first official Test championship final in cricket history. The two finalists were India — who had topped the WTC points table — and New Zealand, who qualified after England withdrew from a tour earlier in the cycle.
The Match
The final was played over six days — an extra reserve day had been allocated — with rain affecting multiple sessions. India batted first and posted 217 in their first innings. New Zealand responded with 249, taking a slender first-innings lead. India's second innings of 170 set New Zealand a target of 139. New Zealand chased the target with eight wickets in hand, with Devon Conway and Kane Williamson making the key partnership. New Zealand won by eight wickets.
New Zealand's Achievement
New Zealand's win was celebrated as one of cricket's great sporting achievements. Under Kane Williamson's captaincy, they had played consistently excellent cricket across the two-year cycle. Kyle Jamieson — in only his sixth Test — took five wickets and was named Player of the Final. For New Zealand, it was confirmation of their status as one of Test cricket's leading nations despite their small population.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the 2021 World Test Championship final?
New Zealand defeated India by eight wickets in the inaugural 2021 WTC final at Southampton to become the first-ever ICC World Test Champions.
Who was the Player of the Final in the 2021 WTC?
Kyle Jamieson was named Player of the Final for his five-wicket haul in only his sixth Test match.