The World Test Championship Final 2025 at Lord’s from June 11 to 15 ended with South Africa beating Australia by 5 wickets.
South Africa reached the WTC final for the first time and made history by winning an ICC title after 27 years.
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As fans wait for this year’s champion to be crowned, let’s look back at who won the previous WTC titles and how they did it.
Full list of World Test Championship winners
Only two teams have managed to win the World Test Championship up to now. New Zealand were the first to take the title back in 2021, while Australia followed with their first WTC crown in 2023.
| Year | Winner | Opponent | Margin |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | New Zealand | India | 8 wickets |
| 2023 | Australia | India | 209 runs |
| 2025 | South Africa | Australia | 5 wickets |
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How did New Zealand become the first WTC champions?
The first WTC final took place in June 2021 at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. It was a rain-affected game, but the reserve day allowed for extra time in the match. New Zealand bowled first after losing the toss and took control quickly.
Kyle Jamieson was outstanding with the new ball, picking up 5 wickets in India’s first innings. India were bowled out for 217. New Zealand responded with a score of 249, with Devon Conway scoring 54. In the second innings, India again struggled, getting all out for 170.
The Blackcaps needed just 139 to win. Captain Kane Williamson stayed calm with 52 not out, while Ross Taylor finished the game with an unbeaten 47. Jamieson’s 7 wickets across both innings earned him the Player of the Match award.
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IND vs AUS: What happened in the WTC 2023 final?
The second WTC final was played at The Oval in London. Australia faced India again, and this time it was a one-sided contest. India chose to bowl, but Australia put up a big score.
Travis Head smashed 163 runs, while Steve Smith added 121. Australia reached 469 in the first innings. India tried to fight back with 296, thanks to Ajinkya Rahane’s 89, but Australia stayed ahead.
In their second innings, Australia made 270/8 declared, setting India a target of 444. Scott Boland struck early on Day 5, removing Kohli and Jadeja.
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Nathan Lyon picked up 4 wickets and wrapped up the game. India were bowled out for 234. Australia won by 209 runs and Head was named Player of the Match.
SA vs AUS: What happened in the WTC 2025 final?
The third WTC final was played at The Lord's in London. Australia faced South Africa, with the Proteas winning by 5 wickets.
Aiden Markram was declared the man of the match for his century (136) and 147-run partnership with Temba Bavuma in the fourth innings.