The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had expressed interest in hosting the next World Test Championship (WTC) final on home soil. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has turned down the request, instead awarding hosting rights for the next three WTC finals to England continuing the precedent set in the tournament’s previous editions.
South Africa recently clinched their maiden WTC title by defeating Australia in the 2025 final, which was held at Lord’s. Soon after, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed plans to host future finals. This decision was formalized at the ICC Annual General Meeting in Singapore earlier this week. Accordingly, England will host the WTC finals in 2027, 2029, and 2031.
The first three WTC finals in 2021 (Southampton), 2023 (The Oval), and 2025 (Lord’s) were also held in England. The ICC cited England’s proven ability to successfully host major Test events as a key factor in their decision. India, who failed to reach the final in all three cycles, was also denied the chance to bring the marquee red-ball event to its home turf.
World Test Champions Final 2023
Commenting on the announcement, ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould said:
“We are thrilled to be entrusted with hosting the next three WTC finals. This decision by the ICC reflects the UK’s deep-rooted passion for Test cricket and the global fanbase it draws. We’re honored to continue this legacy and will work closely with the ICC to deliver world-class events, as we have done in the past.”
According to ESPN Cricinfo, England’s cricketing summer beginning in June, right after the conclusion of the IPL fits well into the ICC’s global calendar. This timing offers minimal scheduling conflicts, and as a neutral venue, England ensures strong ticket sales and vibrant spectator turnout regardless of the finalists.
The atmosphere at the 2025 final at Lord’s was particularly lauded, with ICC President Jay Shah reportedly impressed by the packed stands and lively crowd. The ICC also emphasized that England’s ability to draw large audiences even when the host nation isn’t playing played a decisive role in the continued selection of the venue.
While it is not yet confirmed if Lord’s will host all three upcoming finals, England’s dominance as the home of red-ball cricket appears firmly established for the near future.
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