The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) was created by the International Cricket Council to maintain the importance of Test cricket, ensuring it remains as significant as shorter formats like ODIs and T20s. The WTC serves as the Test equivalent of the ODI and T20 World Cups.
How long does a WTC cycle run?
A WTC cycle lasts two years. The current cycle started on June 17, 2025, with a two-match Test series between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and will conclude with the final in England in 2027.
How many teams participate, and how are they shortlisted?
Nine teams participate in each cycle, selected from the top nine in the ICC Men’s Test team rankings. There are talks about possibly adding a tenth team in future cycles.
Which teams are part of the current cycle?
The nine teams in the 2025–2027 cycle are South Africa, India, Australia, England, Pakistan, Bangladesh, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and West Indies.
Are all Test matches part of the WTC?
No, matches involving teams outside the top nine, such as Afghanistan, Ireland, and Zimbabwe, are not included in the WTC.
How are points distributed?
- Win: 12 points
- Draw: 4 points
- Tie: 6 points
How is the leaderboard determined?
The leaderboard is based on Points Percentage (PCT) instead of total points.
PCT = (Points Won ÷ Total Available Points) × 100
This method is fair, as not all teams play the same number of matches.
How are the finalists decided?
The top two teams on the leaderboard at the end of the cycle qualify for the WTC final.
Are teams docked points?
Yes, teams can lose points for slow over-rate violations, which also leads to fines for players.
Who are the defending champions?
South Africa is the current champion, having won against Australia by five wickets in the final of the 2023–2025 cycle.
How many teams have already won the World Test Championship?
Three teams have won the WTC trophy so far:
- New Zealand won the first edition by defeating India by eight wickets.
- Australia won the second edition, beating India by 209 runs.
- South Africa is the current champion.