India’s hopes to host a World Test Championship Final have taken another hit, as the ICC is likely to give the next three finals to England. So far, the finals have been played at different venues in England: The Rose Bowl in Southampton in 2021, The Oval in London in 2023, and now Lord’s is set for 2025.
According to The Telegraph, this decision isn’t official yet, but it’s a big blow for the BCCI, which has been pushing for hosting rights for years. If this gets confirmed at the Annual Conference in Singapore this July, it will mean that England will have the finals until at least the 2029-31 cycle.
The ICC has reportedly told the England and Wales Cricket Board that it prefers to hold the next three finals in England. Though there hasn’t been an official announcement yet, reports say ticket sales at Lord’s during the current final between Australia and South Africa have helped England’s case. The ICC seems to like England’s travel logistics and its historic reputation as a cricket destination.
The report also mentions that while Lord’s is likely to be a favorite for 2027, discussions about where the finals will actually be held are still early. London has the advantage of being a major travel hub, but other places in the north might also be considered.
India has appeared in two WTC Finals but hasn’t hosted any yet. The BCCI has wanted to bring this big event to India for over six years. With Jay Shah, the former BCCI secretary, now the ICC Chairman, many thought it might finally work in India’s favor. But the report suggests that commercial and logistical issues might still be standing in the way.