With the much-anticipated five-Test series between India and England set to begin in less than a week, a new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle is about to take flight. Shubman Gill will lead India for the first time in Tests, while Ben Stokes’ England would not want to miss out on a WTC final spot this time around.
But even before a ball is bowled, the cricketing heavyweights are locking horns off the field, with the International Cricket Council (ICC) set to decide which country gets to host the WTC finals for the next three editions.
WTC Final hosting rights: ECB ahead of BCCI as of now
While India expressed interest during recent ICC meetings to bring the showpiece event home, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) appears to have moved ahead in the race. As per the Telegraph, the ICC has verbally conveyed its intention to continue staging the finals in England, with formal approval expected at next month’s Annual Conference in Singapore. If confirmed, England will host the 2027, 2029 and 2031 finals—stretching its monopoly on the event to six straight years since its inception in 2019.
There are strong reasons behind England’s continued favouritism. June fits well in the cricket calendar—after the IPL and before most bilateral Test series. England offers stable early-summer weather, a time zone suitable for global broadcast, and crucially, the ability to draw crowds for neutral matches due to its multicultural population. The current final between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s, despite India’s absence, drew over 75,000 fans in the first three days, bolstered by diaspora support and affordable ticketing. Venues like the Oval, Lord’s, and Southampton have all proven viable hosts.
However, India’s argument is not without merit. With unmatched financial clout, a vast fan base, and its dominant influence in world cricket, India’s desire to stage at least one WTC final appears justified. Hosting the final in India would reward its loyal Test-following public and showcase subcontinental conditions on the biggest stage. Yet, logistical and political challenges persist—notably the ongoing freeze in Indo-Pak bilateral ties, which could complicate neutral tournaments.
The tug-of-war over hosting rights reflects more than just logistical preferences—it’s a symbolic battle of cricketing power. As the Gill-led Indian team kicks off their WTC 2025–27 campaign on June 20, the real test may lie not only on the pitch, but in the ICC boardroom.
India vs England off the field too! Fruit of hosting WTC final to be decided by ICC Inside Sport India.
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