The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that England will host the next three editions of the World Test Championship (WTC) finals in 2027, 2029, and 2031. This decision underscores England's reputation as a key venue for international cricket, following the successful hosting of the previous three finals.

A Legacy of Excellence

All three WTC finals so far have been held in England, with South Africa's thrilling victory over Australia at Lord's in 2025 being the most recent. The ICC cited England's "successful track record in hosting recent finals" as a primary reason for awarding the hosting rights to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Fan Engagement and Global Appeal

ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould expressed his delight, stating, "Hosting these finals is a testament to the passion that fans in this country have for this treasured format of the game." He also highlighted the global appeal of English cricket venues, noting the willingness of international supporters to travel to England for these marquee events.

Past WTC Finals Recap

• 2021: Held in biosecure conditions in Southampton, New Zealand triumphed over India.
• 2023: Australia defeated India at The Oval in a sold-out event.
• 2025: South Africa secured their first major title since 1998 with a victory over Australia at Lord's.

Future Prospects

England has yet to reach a WTC final, finishing fifth in the 2023-25 cycle. However, the upcoming finals present an opportunity for the team to make their mark on the global stage.

Supporting Afghan Women Cricketers

In addition to the WTC announcement, the ICC provided an update on its support for Afghanistan's female cricketers. A dedicated taskforce, supported by the ECB, Cricket Australia, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India, aims to offer structured support through high-performance initiatives and domestic playing opportunities. This effort is part of a broader commitment to inclusivity and development in cricket.

Looking Ahead

As England prepares to host the next three WTC finals, the cricketing world looks forward to witnessing more unforgettable moments in the sport's most revered format. The ICC and ECB are committed to building on the success of previous editions, ensuring that the WTC continues to captivate fans worldwide.