The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) is the premier league competition for Test cricket, introduced to bring context and significance to the traditional red-ball format. Since its inception in 2019, the championship has added clarity to Test cricket rankings and redefined how fans and teams approach long-format contests.
History of the WTC
The World Test Championship was launched by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2019, replacing the previous system of standalone series. The main objective was to establish a league-based format where every Test match counted toward a single global championship.
The inaugural WTC cycle ran from 2019 to 2021, culminating in a final between India and New Zealand at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. New Zealand won the match, becoming the first-ever WTC champions.
The second cycle started in August 2021 and concluded in June 2023, with Australia defeating India in the final at The Oval.
How the WTC Points System Works
The WTC points system is designed to reward consistency across both home and away series. Each series is worth a maximum of 120 points, regardless of its length.
Key Rules:
- Points are distributed equally per match within a series.
- A draw earns each team 1/3 of the match points.
- A tie results in an even 50% share.
- Teams can also lose points for slow over-rates.
Example (for a 5-match series):
- Win: 24 points
- Draw: 8 points
- Tie: 12 points
- Loss: 0 points
The WTC points table ranks teams by the percentage of points earned (PCT), which adjusts for unequal numbers of matches played due to cancellations or postponements.
Structure of the WTC
Each WTC cycle runs over two years. Nine top-ranked teams compete in six series — three at home and three away. This ensures a fair balance, even if not all teams play each other.
At the end of the cycle, the top two teams in the World Test Championship standings qualify for the WTC Final, a one-off Test match at a neutral venue.
Best Test Teams and WTC Highlights
The WTC has seen dominant performances from traditional Test powerhouses. Here’s a look at some of the top-performing teams and key series.
Top Teams (as of current cycle):
- India: Known for their strong bowling attack and depth in batting.
- Australia: Reigning champions with a balanced squad.
- South Africa: Emerging as a contender thanks to a potent pace battery.
- England: Aggressive approach under Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum.
Notable Matches:
- India vs Australia 2020-21: A dramatic series that ended 2–1 in India’s favour despite massive injury setbacks.
- Ashes 2023 (England vs Australia): Though drawn 2–2, it impacted WTC standings significantly.
- WTC Final 2023: Australia clinched the title by defeating India by 209 runs.
Key Players to Watch
Throughout WTC history, many players have left a strong impact with both bat and ball. Some standouts include:
- Pat Cummins (AUS) – Consistent wicket-taker and leader.
- Joe Root (ENG) – Scored over 1,500 WTC runs in one cycle.
- Ravichandran Ashwin (IND) – Match-winner in home and away conditions.
- Kane Williamson (NZ) – Steadying presence in the batting lineup.
Emerging talents such as Abdullah Shafique (PAK), Harry Brook (ENG), and Marco Jansen (SA) have also made headlines in recent series.
Current Cycle and WTC Final 2025
The third WTC cycle runs from June 2023 to March 2025. Fixtures include high-stakes series like India vs England, Australia vs Pakistan, and South Africa vs New Zealand.
As of June 2025, the current World Test Championship standings suggest a tight race, with India, Australia, and South Africa vying for the top two spots.
Upcoming WTC Final:
- Date: Scheduled for June 2025
- Venue: Lord’s Cricket Ground, London (subject to ICC confirmation)
Interesting Stats from the WTC
- Most Runs (WTC 2019–21): Marnus Labuschagne (AUS) – 1,675
- Most Wickets (WTC 2019–21): Ravichandran Ashwin (IND) – 71
- Most 5-Wicket Hauls: Nathan Lyon (AUS) – 7
- Highest Team Score: Pakistan – 657/8 vs England (2022)
Why the WTC Matters for Test Cricket
The ICC World Test Championship brings context to every Test series, helping fans and players track progress toward a clear objective. It has also influenced strategic decisions, like resting players ahead of crucial fixtures and emphasizing over-rate discipline.
With Test match format evolving to include more aggressive batting and tactical fielding, the WTC has ensured that red-ball cricket remains relevant alongside T20 leagues and ODI competitions.
Final Thoughts
The WTC has transformed how Test cricket is perceived globally. With every cycle bringing fresh rivalries, new heroes, and a meaningful final, the Test cricket championship has secured its place as a fixture in the international calendar.
Keep an eye on the WTC points table and upcoming fixtures, as the top teams battle it out for a place in the WTC Final 2025 at Lord’s.