The World Test Championship was launched in 2019 to add context and excitement to cricket’s longest format. Spanning two-year cycles, the tournament determines the world’s best Test team based on points earned from a series of matches against each other.
The inaugural cycle ended with New Zealand and India each winning their respective WTC finals, but this summer it is South Africa who will be holding the mace when they take on Australia in a decisive final at Lord’s. The Proteas ripped the label of underdog from Australia’s callused grip in Saturday’s thrilling finale at the home of cricket, courtesy of Aiden Markram’s unbeaten century and Temba Bavuma’s vital support.
Amid the jubilation, it is important to remember that the WTC remains controversial, and the ICC has already considered a range of potential changes in response to criticisms of its structure. Whether through the point deductions for slow overs or the exclusion of non-Test playing nations such as Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe, the competition has been accused of focusing on profits over the long term sustainability of the game.
Despite the criticism, the WTC offers an intriguing and exciting concept, and on Wednesday night at Lord’s it will be finally put to the ultimate test. The result will decide which of the nine full ICC members is the world’s top Test team, and who will hold the mace in the fourth edition of the World Test Championship.