World Test Championship Finals Explained
The history of the ICC World Test Championship Finals, who has won, and how the WTC qualification system works.
What Is the World Test Championship?
The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) is a league-format competition for Test-playing nations, with a two-year cycle culminating in a final between the top two teams. Points are awarded for results in all bilateral Test series throughout the cycle. The WTC was created to give context and purpose to bilateral Test series, and to provide Test cricket with a clear champion for the first time.
WTC Finals Results
| Cycle | Final Venue | Winner | Runner-Up | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019–21 | Southampton, England | New Zealand | India | 8 wickets |
| 2021–23 | The Oval, London | Australia | India | 209 runs |
| 2023–25 | Lord's, London | South Africa | Australia | 6 wickets |
How Teams Qualify for the WTC Final
Points are awarded for each Test result: wins earn 12 points, draws 4 points, and losses 0 points. However, because different teams play different numbers of series and matches, the standings use a percentage of points available (PCT): total points won divided by maximum points available, expressed as a percentage. The top two teams by PCT at the end of the cycle meet in the Lord's or The Oval final.
New Zealand's Inaugural WTC Win
New Zealand's 2021 WTC Final victory over India at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton was one of cricket's most celebrated results for the underdog. New Zealand, despite not being ranked among the top Test teams, produced a clinical performance led by Kane Williamson's 49 in the second innings and Kyle Jamieson's 5 wickets. The win cemented their status as a cricketing overachiever relative to their resources and population.
Frequently asked questions
How often is the WTC Final played?
The WTC Final is played every two years, at the end of each two-year qualification cycle. The ICC typically schedules it in England in June.
How many points do you get for winning a Test?
Twelve points for a win, four for a draw, and zero for a loss. However, the standings are decided by PCT (percentage of maximum points available), not raw points, to account for different numbers of matches played.