The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that England will host the next three World Test Championship (WTC) finals in 2027, 2029, and 2031. The decision, confirmed at the ICC’s annual conference in Singapore, underscores England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) consistent excellence in staging marquee Test events.
Why England Was Chosen
ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould praised the move, calling it “a testament to the passion that fans in this country have for this treasured format of the game” and thanked the ICC for renewing trust.
The India Bid Overlooked
Despite a strong bid from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)—backed by commercial appeal and large stadiums—the ICC opted to again select England for its proven logistics and attendance. Tournaments in June in India often contend with extreme heat, increasing the appeal of England’s temperate climate.
Strategic Timing & Infrastructure
The ICC’s agenda in Singapore wasn’t limited to venues:
A proposed two-division WTC format for the 2027–2029 cycle was discussed, aiming to deepen the Test pool and introduce promotion and relegation.
Support for displaced Afghan women cricketers was greenlit, involving collaboration between the ICC, ECB, BCCI, and Cricket Australia
The board accepted Timor-Leste and Zambia as new Associate Members, swelling the total to 110
Response from Cricket Stakeholders
Former India coach Ravi Shastri described Lord’s as an ideal venue. He added that future finals could rotate to India or Australia. This, he suggested, would diversify the tournament and help attract more interest. Indeed, rising Test-adoption in other cricket nations opens possibilities.
Meanwhile, England’s repeat hosting reaffirms their authority in Test cricket. At the same time, their national team is still striving for final qualification.
What’s on the Horizon
- The organizers have not yet confirmed the venues for the 2027–2031 finals, but Lord’s remains a strong candidate.
- Two-division WTC rollout may reshape Test cricket tiers.
- Continued investment in formats, women’s cricket, and infrastructure will be key for ICC’s global push.