The International Cricket Council (ICC) on September 21 (Wednesday) revealed the name of the venue that will host the World Test Championship (WTC) final for the ongoing cycle 2021-23. The final of the tournament will be played in 2023 at the Oval in London, a venue that has hosted 104 Test matches so far. Meanwhile, the 'mecca of cricket' - Lord's - will host the final in 2025.
"The International Cricket Council (ICC) today confirmed that the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 will be played at The Oval in London with the 2025 edition to take place at Lord's," ICC said in a statement.
Australia are stationed at the top of the WTC standings with six wins in 10 matches. The Baggy Greens have only lost one Test match in the ongoing WTC cycle. South Africa, who have also won six of their 10 matches, are placed second in the standings.
"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," ICC chief Geoff Allardice was quoted as saying.
"Following that we will then take the 2025 Final to Lord's which will provide a fitting backdrop to the ultimate Test."
The final of the inaugural edition of the WTC was scheduled to be played at the Lord's but the venue was later changed to Rose Bowl in Southampton. In the final last year (2021), New Zealand defeated India by eight wickets to clinch the first-ever WTC title.
"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," Allardice further said.
