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ICC announces record prize money for WTC Final 2023-25

The winners of this year’s final will receive a whopping USD $3.6 million

ICC announces record prize money for WTC Final 2023-25 PHOTO: ICC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a record prize pool for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 Final, which will be held at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11 to 15. The total prize fund has been set at an impressive USD $5.76 million, more than double the amount given in previous WTC cycles.

The winners of this year’s final will receive a whopping USD $3.6 million, a significant increase from the USD $1.6 million awarded to both New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023). Meanwhile, the runners-up will take home USD $2.16 million, compared to $800,000 in past editions.

South Africa became the first team to secure their spot in the final, finishing on top of the WTC standings. Their qualification came after series victories over Pakistan, the West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, as well as a drawn series at home against India. Australia also qualified for the final, following their 3-1 win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Sri Lanka, along with earlier series victories over India, Pakistan and New Zealand.

South African captain Temba Bavuma expressed his excitement and determination ahead of the final. 

“We’re really proud to have reached the World Test Championship Final, and it’s a great opportunity for us to win an ICC title,” Bavuma said. 

“Lord’s is the perfect venue for this big match, and we will all be giving our best against Australia. The excitement is building as the match draws nearer,” he added. 

On the other side, Australian captain Pat Cummins spoke about his team’s determination to defend their title. 

“We are extremely proud to have the chance to defend the World Test Championship, especially at Lord’s,” Cummins said. 

“This is a result of the hard work put in by everyone over the past two years. We’re looking forward to the challenge South Africa will bring at the home of cricket,” he concluded.