ICC Announces Record-Breaking Prize Money for World Test Championship Final 2025

With the World Test Championship final just weeks away, the ICC has upped the ante with a record-breaking prize pool for the 2023–25 cycle. Set to take place on June 11 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the clash between South Africa and defending champions Australia will now carry a total purse of $5.76 million – more than double what was on offer in the previous two finals.

The winners will pocket a staggering $3.6 million, a sharp rise from the $1.6 million awarded in 2021 and 2023. Even the runners-up will receive a significantly higher sum, earning $2.16 million compared to the previous $800,000. India, who finished third in the WTC standings, will take home $1.44 million, while fourth-placed New Zealand will collect $1.2 million for their efforts over the two-year cycle. 

South Africa and Australia’s road to WTC Final 

South Africa were the first to punch their ticket to the final. Their campaign was built on solid series wins over Pakistan, Bangladesh, West Indies, and Sri Lanka, along with a closely-fought draw at home against India. It's been a consistent run from the Proteas, and this will be their first-ever appearance in a WTC final. 

Australia, on the other hand, will be returning to familiar ground. Having won the previous edition, they secured their place in the final with a commanding 3-1 win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Their campaign also featured a clean sweep against Pakistan at home, and successful away tours to Sri Lanka and New Zealand. 

ICC Chair Jay Shah shares his thoughts on WTC Final 

ICC Chair Jay Shah shared his thoughts following the announcement, saying: “We have witnessed a very interesting third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, where the finalists were decided only towards the end of the competition. The championship has showcased remarkable performances from players of different teams, culminating in a final between these two exceptional squads – a true celebration of cricket. I am sure spectators at Lord’s, along with fans tuning in from all over the world, will be treated to some top-class cricket in this revered format when Australia and South Africa take the field less than a month from now. On behalf of the ICC, I extend best wishes to the players of both teams in their preparations for the prestigious match.” 

With the red ball format returning to center stage, anticipation is growing fast. South Africa will be eyeing a maiden WTC crown. Meanwhile, Australia are hungry to go back-to-back and reinforce their dominance in the longest format of the game. Everything is on the line – prestige, legacy, and now, a hefty payday. Lord’s is ready. So are the fans. And soon, so will be the teams. 

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