The third edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) is all set to kick off with an enthralling encounter between a resurgent England side and reigning champions Australia in the highly anticipated Ashes series. Starting on Friday, June 16, 2023, this clash marks the beginning of a thrilling cycle that will culminate in the WTC Final at Lord’s in 2025.
The structure of the WTC remains consistent with the participation of nine teams, each playing three home and three away series over a span of two years. The leaderboard will be determined by the points percentage system, where teams earn 12 points for a win, six for a tie, and four for a draw. This system ensures an exciting competition throughout the championship.
The upcoming WTC cycle, spanning from 2023 to 2025, will feature a total of 68 matches across 27 series, with the third edition of the WTC Final set to take place at Lord’s in 2025. The nine participating teams include Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and West Indies, guaranteeing a diverse and captivating tournament.
READ MORE: Real Madrid Signs Jude Bellingham in Record Deal
Each series within the WTC cycle will consist of two to five Tests, with each team playing a total of six series—three at home and three away. The top two teams in the WTC standings will earn the opportunity to compete in the prestigious Final at Lord’s, adding to the excitement and anticipation.
Wasim Khan, the ICC’s General Manager of Cricket, expressed his enthusiasm for the WTC, stating, “The third edition of the ICC World Test Championship begins on Friday, June 16, with another highly anticipated series between England and Australia. This championship has invigorated Test match cricket, providing context for players and fans, and fostering a high level of competitiveness as teams vie for the coveted title of World Test Champions.”
It’s worth noting that the number of matches played by each team in the WTC cycle may vary, as the standings will be determined based on the percentage of earned points from all possible matches. England is scheduled to feature in the highest number of Test matches during the WTC cycle, with 21 matches, while Australia and India will also participate in 19 matches each, featuring in regular five-day fixtures.
READ MORE: Tickets On Sale Now for ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup Qualifier 2023
In the World Test Championship, every Test match carries significant weight, with 12 points available for a win, four points for a draw, and six points for a tie. Teams do not earn any points from a loss, and they may face point deductions for slow over rates, making every moment crucial in the pursuit of the ultimate title.
With the announcement of the third edition of the WTC, cricket enthusiasts worldwide can look forward to witnessing top-class Test cricket, thrilling encounters, and intense competition as teams battle it out for the coveted title of World Test Champions.
READ MORE: Djokovic Seeks 23rd Grand Slam Title, World Ranking Summit
