The Oval to Host ICC World Test Championship Final in 2024
Venue Confirmation for the WTC Final
The Oval in London has been officially designated as the location for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final, scheduled from Wednesday, June 9 to Sunday, June 13, 2024.
WTC Final Hosting Details
Last year, the ICC revealed that England would be the host for the next three WTC Finals, set for 2027, 2029, and 2031. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is responsible for selecting the venue for each of these finals.
Current Standings in the WTC Race
This marks the second occasion The Oval will host the WTC Final, having previously done so in 2023 when Australia triumphed over India. As the current WTC cycle approaches its climax, nine teams are still vying for a spot in the final. Australia leads the standings with a points percentage of 87.50%, having won seven out of eight Tests. They are followed by the defending champions, South Africa, at 75%. New Zealand is close behind at 72.22%, while Bangladesh has surged into contention with a recent 2-0 series victory over Pakistan, bringing their points percentage to 58.33%. India, with a points percentage of 48.15%, is currently fifth, just ahead of Sri Lanka at 41.67%. England, West Indies, and Pakistan have significant challenges ahead if they wish to qualify for the final.
Upcoming Crucial Series
The competition for a place in the WTC Final will intensify in July and August, with several key series on the horizon. West Indies will kick off the action by hosting Pakistan in a two-Test series starting July 25, both teams eager for crucial points. Australia will aim to solidify their top position when they face Bangladesh in a two-match series beginning August 13. Following that, Sri Lanka and India will clash in a two-Test series starting August 15, while Pakistan will tour England for a three-Test series in August and September.
Official Remarks on the Event
ICC General Manager of Events & Operations, Gaurav Saxena, commented on the announcement, stating, "The ICC World Test Championship Final has become one of the most esteemed events in the cricket calendar, showcasing the top two Test teams after two years of consistent performance. The 2027 final will be particularly significant as cricket commemorates 150 years of Test matches. The Oval has a rich history in our sport and has hosted many unforgettable moments. We are excited to collaborate with the ECB to deliver another exceptional event that honors the legacy of Test cricket and creates lasting memories for fans globally."
Neil Snowball, ECB Managing Director of Competitions and Major Events, expressed, "We are privileged to host the next three ICC World Test Championship Finals in England and Wales, and we are delighted to confirm that The Oval will again be the venue next year. The 2023 final was a tremendous success with fans and broadcasters, and I am confident that next year's event will be even more special."
Historical WTC Champions
The first three editions of the ICC World Test Championship have seen different champions: New Zealand won the inaugural title in 2021, Australia claimed victory in 2023, and South Africa celebrated their first major ICC trophy with a memorable win in 2025.