ICC thanks ECB and MCC for hosting successful WTC Final 2025 as South Africa clinch historic win at Lord’s

Sell-out crowds and global viewership mark the first-ever WTC Final at the Home of Cricket; ICC praises South Africa and Australia for a gripping contest

South Africa men’s cricket team posing with the ICC World Test Championship 2025 mace on the balcony at Lord’s Cricket Ground, with the South African flag displayed.

Photo Credit: ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has expressed gratitude to the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) for their role in the successful hosting of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025 at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

In a historic showdown, South Africa lifted the WTC trophy for the first time with a five-wicket victory over Australia in a tightly contested match at the Home of Cricket, which hosted the Final for the first time.

Lord’s delivers iconic WTC Final experience

The match drew sell-out crowds and captivated fans around the globe with its intensity and high-level cricket. The success of the event underscores Lord’s ongoing reputation as the spiritual home of Test cricket.

ICC Chairman Jay Shah praised the hosting efforts, stating:

“We would like to thank and congratulate the ECB and MCC for successfully hosting the ICC World Test Championship Final 2025. Lord’s is a place synonymous with Test cricket and this was a match fitting of both the occasion and the venue.”

He continued, “Those involved in preparing the playing surfaces, delivering the match and hosting the teams and supporters should be very proud. Fans in the stadium and around the world were treated to a gripping contest between two proud cricketing nations.”

South Africa’s maiden WTC title win

South Africa’s triumph marks a milestone in their Test cricket history, as they defeated defending champions Australia to secure their first WTC crown. The match highlighted the strength and competitiveness of the format, with fans following every moment across broadcast and digital platforms.

Looking ahead to the WTC 2025–27 cycle

The ICC now turns its attention to the next WTC cycle, which begins on 17 June, and will conclude with the Final in 2027. With nine teams competing across six series each (three home, three away), the race for the next championship is already underway.

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