The World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 is heating up as South Africa and India have secured their spots with thrilling wins over Pakistan and an impressive record respectively. On the other hand, New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, and Pakistan are now out of contention for the final spot, making the remaining matches even more crucial for other teams in the race.
The World Test Championship 2025: South Africa and India Secure Final Berths
The World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 has reached its climax, with South Africa and India emerging as the two finalists. The tournament has witnessed thrilling contests and intense rivalries among the world's top Test teams.
Background on the World Test Championship
The World Test Championship was established by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in 2019 to crown the global champion in the longest format of the game. The inaugural edition of the tournament was played from 2019 to 2021, with India defeating New Zealand in the final to become the first WTC champions.
The current edition of the World Test Championship, which began in 2023, features nine teams competing over two years. Teams earn points based on their performances in Test matches, with the top two teams qualifying for the final.
South Africa and India Book Final Berths
South Africa secured their place in the final after a thrilling victory over Pakistan in the second Test of their two-match series. The Proteas chased down a target of 298 in the fourth innings to claim a 2-0 series win and confirm their place in the WTC final.
India qualified for the final based on their impressive record throughout the tournament. They have won 12 of their 20 matches, including series victories over England, Australia, and Sri Lanka. India's consistency and ability to perform under pressure have made them worthy contenders for the WTC crown.
Remaining Contenders Out of Contention
With South Africa and India securing their places in the final, the remaining teams in the WTC have been eliminated from contention. New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, and Pakistan have all failed to accumulate enough points to qualify for the final.
This means that the remaining matches in the tournament will have no bearing on the outcome of the WTC. However, they will still provide valuable opportunities for teams to gain experience and prepare for future competitions.
Top 5 FAQs about the World Test Championship
1. When will the WTC 2025 Final be played?
The WTC 2025 Final will be played in June 2025 at The Oval in London, England.
2. Which teams will play in the WTC 2025 Final?
South Africa and India will play in the WTC 2025 Final.
3. How many teams are participating in the WTC 2025?
Nine teams are participating in the WTC 2025: Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies.
4. Which team won the inaugural WTC in 2021?
India defeated New Zealand in the final to win the inaugural WTC in 2021.
5. What is the format of the World Test Championship?
The World Test Championship is a two-year tournament in which teams play a series of Test matches. Teams earn points based on their performances in these matches, with the top two teams qualifying for the final.
After Rishabh Pant's car accident and subsequent absence from international cricket, KL Rahul stepped up to fill the void as India's wicket-keeper and No. 5 batsman. With impressive performances in the Asia Cup 2023 and World Cup 2023, he solidified his spot in the team. However, with Pant's comeback during the ODIs in Sri Lanka, India is faced with a decision on who will take on the role for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. With a series against England to determine the position, KL Rahul has proven himself as a capable No. 5 batsman, with two centuries and nine fifties at an average of 57.
Portugal's star footballer Cristiano Ronaldo declares himself as the best in football history, surpassing his argentine rival Lionel Messi. In a recent interview, Ronaldo stated that while he respects those who prefer Messi, he believes he is the most complete player to ever exist. He also expressed a healthy rivalry between the two and reflected on their 15 years of competing against each other.
Chelsea's bid for the Premier League title is all but over as they stumble to a 1-1 draw against West Ham United. Enzo Maresca's side have struggled to maintain leads in recent games and their defensive frailties have cost them once again. With their top-seven position no longer guaranteed, the Blues must regroup and strengthen their defense if they hope to challenge for the title in the future.
After a last-minute change of heart, Tottenham look set to sign Bayern Munich's Mathys Tel on a loan deal. The versatile attacker will provide much-needed depth for Tottenham, and with his ability to play on the flanks and up front, he is expected to make a significant impact for the team. According to Tottenham captain Harry Kane, Tel is a hard worker and "a weapon" for the team, while former coach Thomas Tuchel has praised his scoring and assist abilities. Tottenham fans can look forward to seeing what this talented Frenchman can bring to their squad.
After a successful stint at Chelsea, Joao Felix is set to depart Stamford Bridge and join AC Milan on loan on Deadline Day. Despite interest from other clubs, including Aston Villa, the Portuguese forward is primed to make the move to Italy after holding talks with the club. With six-and-a-half years left on his contract, Felix will look to continue his impressive scoring form in the Serie A.
After impressing in pre-season, Harry Amass was seen as a potential breakthrough player for Manchester United this season. However, with limited opportunities and new signings stalling his progress, Amass was linked with a loan move. Many fans were hoping for a reunion with fellow academy graduate Marcus Rashford at Aston Villa, but Ineos have now decided to hold onto the talented full-back with plans for a summer move instead.
Inter Miami CF dominated their match against Sporting San Miguelito, securing a 3-1 victory in their Preseason Tour of Latin America. The match saw goals from recent signings Tadeo Allende and Fafa Picault, as well as a goal from Academy product Benjamin Cremaschi. After this win, the team looks forward to their next match against Club Deportivo Olimpia.
In a shocking move, the Dallas Mavericks have traded Luka Doncic, their franchise player, just months after making it to the NBA Finals. Reports suggest that Doncic's weight and overall conditioning were major factors in the decision. NBA legend Charles Barkley weighs in on the situation, sharing his own experience with weight criticism in his rookie year and pointing out the lack of accountability in Doncic's camp. This trade has left many questioning the professionalism and loyalty of the Mavericks' front office towards their star player.
Robert Lewandowski's second-half goal secured a crucial victory for Barcelona against Alaves, cutting the gap on league leaders Real Madrid down to four points. The win allows the Catalans to capitalize on Real Madrid's slip-up against Espanyol and trail them by a narrow margin. With a derby match between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid next weekend, Hansi Flick's side could potentially make up even more ground. Though Alaves put up a tough fight, it was Lewandowski's goal from a Lamine Yamal cross that ultimately sealed the deal for Barcelona.
In a heated match between Arsenal and Manchester City, Martin Odegaard opened the scoring with a goal in the second minute of the game. The Norwegian's goal was a result of a costly mistake by Manuel Akanji, who gave away possession to Kai Havertz, ultimately leading to the goal. The two teams have a history of intense matches, with the previous encounter seeing Erling Haaland and Gabriel getting into a physical altercation. This time, Gabriel celebrated Odegaard's goal right in front of Haaland, reminding him of their past encounter.