Cricket’s most prestigious red-ball event just got even more lucrative. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a record-breaking prize pool for the 2023–25 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, setting the stage for an epic showdown at Lord’s between Australia and South Africa. This historic move not only rewards the best in Test cricket but also underscores the ICC’s commitment to elevating the longest format of the game.
ICC Announces Highest-Ever Prize Pool for WTC Final
Unprecedented Increase in Rewards
The prize money for the upcoming WTC Final has been more than doubled compared to previous editions. Here’s a breakdown:
- Total prize pool: USD $5.76 million (approx. ₹49.3 crore).
- Winner’s prize: USD $3.6 million (approx. ₹30.8 crore)-a 125% jump from the $1.6 million awarded in 2021 and 2023.
- Runner-up’s prize: USD $2.16 million (approx. ₹18.5 crore), up from $800,000 in earlier cycles.
- Third place (India): USD $1.44 million.
- Fourth place (New Zealand): USD $1.2 million.
- Fifth place (England): USD $960,000.
- Sixth to ninth: Prizes range from $840,000 (Sri Lanka) to $480,000 (Pakistan).
This substantial increase is the ICC’s way of recognizing the growing stature and competitiveness of Test cricket on the world stage.
The Finalists: Australia vs South Africa
Road to Lord’s
South Africa topped the WTC25 standings, securing their place in the final with series wins over Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, plus a drawn series against India.
Australia clinched their spot after a dominant 3-1 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win over India, complemented by series victories in New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and a home sweep against Pakistan.
The final, scheduled for June 11–15 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, promises a thrilling contest between two of the world’s top Test sides.
ICC’s Vision: Elevating Test Cricket
Why the Big Jump in Prize Money?
The ICC’s decision to boost the prize pool is about more than just numbers. It’s a clear signal that Test cricket remains at the heart of the sport. ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted that the third WTC cycle has showcased “remarkable performances from players of different teams, culminating in a final between two exceptional squads-a true celebration of cricket”.
The record payout is designed to:
- Reward excellence and commitment in the longest format.
- Encourage teams to prioritize Test cricket.
- Build anticipation and excitement for the format’s marquee event.
- Prize Money Breakdown: WTC 2023–25
| Position | Team | Prize Money (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Winner | Australia/South Africa | $3,600,000 |
| Runner-up | Australia/South Africa | $2,160,000 |
| Third | India | $1,440,000 |
| Fourth | New Zealand | $1,200,000 |
| Fifth | England | $960,000 |
| Sixth | Sri Lanka | $840,000 |
| Seventh | Bangladesh | $720,000 |
| Eighth | West Indies | $600,000 |
| Ninth | Pakistan | $480,000 |
What This Means for the Future of Test Cricket
This record prize pool is a watershed moment. Not only does it incentivize teams to compete fiercely in the WTC cycle, but it also positions Test cricket as a financially rewarding pursuit for players and boards alike. As the cricketing world gears up for the Australia vs South Africa final, fans can expect both teams to leave everything on the field for a shot at history-and a life-changing payday.
FAQs: World Test Championship Final Prize Money
Q1: How much will the WTC Final 2025 winner receive?
A: The winner will take home USD $3.6 million, more than double the prize money from previous editions.
Q2: What is the total prize pool for the WTC 2023–25 cycle?
A: The total prize pool is a record USD $5.76 million (approx. ₹49.3 crore).
Q3: Who are the finalists in the WTC Final 2025?
A: Australia and South Africa will face off at Lord’s from June 11–15, 2025.
Q4: How much will the runner-up receive?
A: The runner-up will earn USD $2.16 million, a significant increase from previous years.
Q5: Why did the ICC increase the prize money for the WTC Final?
A: The ICC aims to reward excellence in Test cricket, encourage participation, and elevate the format’s prestige.
Conclusion
The ICC’s announcement of a record prize pool for the World Test Championship Final marks a new era for Test cricket. With Australia and South Africa set to battle for glory and a $3.6 million winner’s purse, the stage is set for a historic clash at Lord’s. This bold move not only honors the tradition of Test cricket but also ensures its future as the sport’s ultimate challenge.