The International Cricket Council (ICC), on Wednesday, revealed the venues for the finals of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and the next edition in 2025. Both the finals will be held in London, with Kennington Oval hosting the summit clash of the ongoing cycle in 2023, and the Lord’s will host the 2025 WTC final.
The two venues in London will succeed Southampton, where the inaugural final of the WTC was held between New Zealand and India in 2021. Notably, the final was originally scheduled for Lord’s, but due to the COVID-19 situation and the Ageas Bowl’s on-site hospitality arrangements, Southhampton was chosen as the final choice. In that contest, the Black Caps had emerged victorious after beating India by eight wickets.
Although the dates for the 2023 WTC final have not yet been confirmed, it is expected to be held before the Ashes, which begins on June 16.
“We are delighted to be hosting next year’s ICC World Test Championship Final at The Oval, which has such a rich legacy and an amazing atmosphere, which is ideal for such an important fixture on the calendar. Following that, we will then take the 2025 Final to Lord’s, which will provide a fitting backdrop to the ultimate Test,” said ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice.
“Last year’s final between New Zealand and India in Southampton was an engrossing encounter, and I am sure fans the world over would be looking forward to the next WTC final at The Oval. On behalf of the ICC, I would like to thank the England and Wales Cricket Board, Surrey County Cricket Club, and Marylebone Cricket Club for their support,” added Allardice.
