The ICC’s new World Test Championship is supposed to give meaning and context to an international calendar that can seem as random as the Sabina Park pitch that left England stranded in 1998. Rather, it seems to have only added to the confusion.
This third cycle of the WTC, which featured four teams competing against each other, saw South Africa and Australia meet in the final at Lord’s on Sunday. The Proteas won the title after a stellar season that included a 3-0 win over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, plus series wins against Pakistan and New Zealand at home and away. The Australians reached the final thanks to a 3-0 victory over Sri Lanka, a series draw against Bangladesh and home and away series wins against Pakistan and New Zealand.
Both sides have prepared for the final in different ways, with Australia preparing its players by playing in the IPL and county cricket while South Africa has relied on a mix of international commitments, domestic T20 tournaments, and practice sessions at home. The Proteas’ advantage could come from their depth of squad, as well as their experience in winning a record eight consecutive tests.
There are several reasons why England has served as the host of this event, including the fact that it can accommodate a full seven-test series with sold-out crowds and its location in the summer, when matches are less susceptible to weather disruption. The timing of England’s matches also synchronizes with prime viewing hours in cricket-enthusiast nations such as India and other parts of the subcontinent.