ICC boosts prize pot to $3.m for WTC final between South Africa and Australia
ICC hikes World Test Championship prize money, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown at Lord’s.
South Africa.- The battleground is set, the stakes have soared, and cricket’s grandest format is cashing in. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has considerably upped the prize-pot for next month’s World Test Championship (WTC) final, announcing a record-smashing $3.6m.
The summit clash, set to unfold from June 11 to 15 at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, will see reigning champions Australia face off against a hungry South African side still chasing its first ICC crown.
For the first time, even the runners-up will walk away with a jaw-dropping $2.1m, more than what Australia earned for winning the 2023 final. Back then, they pocketed $1.6m, while India settled for $800,000.
“The increase in prize money exhibits the ICC’s efforts to prioritise test cricket as it looks to build on the momentum of the first three cycles of the nine-team competition,” the global body said.
The financial bump isn’t just about numbers. It’s a statement – test cricket still matters.
New life into cricket
In a format often overshadowed by the glitz of T20s and ODIs, the WTC is breathing new life into the longest and most demanding form of the game.
Australia captain Pat Cummins, never one to shy away from pressure, knows exactly what’s at stake.
“We are enormously proud to have the opportunity to defend the World Test Championship, especially at Lord’s,” he said, according to Supersport.
“It’s a testament to all those involved across the past two years who have worked incredibly hard to reach the final.”
On the other end of the spectrum is Temba Bavuma, who leads a South African team desperate to carve their name into ICC history.
“Everyone understands the importance of test cricket, and the World Test Championship lends context to this vital format of the game,” Bavuma said.
“Lord’s is a fitting venue for this mega fixture and all of us will be out there trying to give our best against Australia.”
With history, glory, and millions on the line, the 2025 WTC Final promises to be more than just a match, it’s cricket’s ultimate test.
