The World Test Championship (WTC) Final is here, and it’s set to be a cracker! South Africa and Australia will face off at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11-15, 2025, for the ultimate prize in Test cricket. This marks a big change in the cricket world as India, who has been a regular contender for the WTC mace since the tournament began, won’t be part of this final.

For Indian cricket fans, this is a tough pill to swallow. India had a dream run during the 2019-21 WTC cycle, winning more than 70% of their matches. But things have taken a downturn. This time, India managed only a 50% points percentage, well behind South Africa (66.67%) and Australia (63.72%).

A combination of factors contributed to India’s struggles. The retirement of spin wizard Ravichandran Ashwin, injuries to key players like Jasprit Bumrah, and inconsistent performances from senior players such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma all hurt the team. To make matters worse, they lost 3-1 to Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT), ending their hopes of making it to the final.

On the other hand, Australia has been on a roll this WTC cycle. Despite facing injuries to players like Cameron Green and Josh Hazlewood, they showed grit and dominance under Pat Cummins’ leadership. They even reclaimed the BGT after ten years with a solid win against India. Their consistent performances, including a big win over India in Sydney, secured them a spot in the WTC Final for the second time in a row.

Australia heads into this final as defending champions, having defeated India at The Oval in 2023. Key players like Scott Boland, with his deadly accurate bowling, and Steve Smith, who remains a batting powerhouse, have been crucial to their success. Now, they’ll aim to keep the ICC Test mace in their hands.

For South Africa, this WTC cycle has been nothing short of incredible. They’ve made their first-ever WTC Final after a nail-biting two-wicket win over Pakistan at Centurion in December. With Temba Bavuma leading the team and bowlers like Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje delivering fiery spells, South Africa has been a force to reckon with. Their 66.67% points percentage shows just how consistent they’ve been.

Historically, Australia has the upper hand against South Africa in Test matches, leading 54-26 in head-to-head encounters. However, this will be their first neutral Test match since 1912, making the stakes even higher. South Africa is hungry for their maiden ICC Test mace, while Australia wants to hold on to their crown. It’s all set to be an epic battle.

For India, it’s time for some serious introspection. With senior players nearing retirement and young stars still finding their rhythm, the team is entering a rebuilding phase. Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness will be critical moving forward, as will finding a stable batting lineup that can perform well overseas.

As cricket fans gear up for this thrilling WTC Final at Lord’s, all eyes will be on whether Australia can defend their title or if South Africa can create history by winning their first ICC Test mace. One thing is for sure—this match will be one for the ages!