In a surprising and bold move, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has officially awarded England the hosting rights for the next three World Test Championship (WTC) finals in 2027, 2029, and 2031. This decision has sparked intense reactions from cricket boards and fans alike, particularly from India, as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had aggressively lobbied to bring the event to Indian soil. However, their bid was rejected by the ICC.
This blog explores the decision in detail, analyzing its implications, the reasons behind the ICC’s choice, BCCI’s reaction, and what this means for global Test cricket.
🌍 Why England? The Logic Behind ICC’s Decision
England’s Lord’s Cricket Ground has long been considered the spiritual home of cricket. Its legacy, infrastructure, and central location make it a favorite for global cricket events.
🏟️ Iconic Venues
- Lord’s
- The Oval
- Old Trafford
These venues have consistently delivered in terms of crowd management, facilities, media handling, and hospitality.
🌦️ Weather Concerns? A Calculated Risk
While England’s weather is unpredictable, the ICC seems willing to take that risk due to its well-developed contingency plans and historic prestige.
🌐 Global Accessibility
England’s connectivity from various parts of the cricketing world makes it a neutral and convenient choice for fans and broadcasters.
🇮🇳 BCCI’s Ambitious Push: Why It Was Rejected
💼 India’s Proposal
The BCCI offered:
- Full financing of the event
- Massive stadiums like Narendra Modi Stadium (132,000 capacity)
- Promises of high viewership and record-breaking revenue
🛑 ICC’s Concerns
Despite the benefits, the ICC cited several reasons for denying India:
- Monsoon risks in June
- Political pressure and the risk of excessive commercialization
- Neutrality concerns (India being a major power in ICC politics)
📢 Official Statement
The ICC said, "While we appreciate BCCI’s commitment to growing the game, the selection of venues must prioritize neutrality and operational readiness."
🤝 Politics Behind the Pitch: Inside the ICC-BCCI Tension
The rivalry between the ICC and BCCI is no secret. While India is the financial powerhouse of global cricket, the ICC wants to maintain balance and neutrality.
⚖️ Balancing Power
Giving India all the major events would increase accusations of bias. England, Australia, and South Africa also have strong voices within the ICC.
🔄 Rotation Policy?
Insiders say that future finals could still go to other nations — but not before 2033.
💬 Reactions from Officials
- Jay Shah (BCCI Secretary): “We are disappointed but will continue to push for India’s rightful place.”
- Geoff Allardice (ICC CEO): “Our choice was based on logistics, not politics.”
💸 Economic Impact: Who Really Wins?
📈 England’s Gain
- Local tourism boost
- Broadcast revenue
- Hotel & travel surge in London and surrounding areas
📉 India’s Missed Opportunity
- Missed chance to showcase world-class infrastructure
- Huge potential ticket sales lost
However, India still remains a hub for other ICC events like the 2026 T20 World Cup.
👥 Fans React: Jubilation and Outrage
🇬🇧 UK Fans
- "Lord’s is where legends are made. This is perfect."
- "Great decision by the ICC."
🇮🇳 Indian Fans
- "Total bias! BCCI should pull out."
- "Disrespectful after all India has done for cricket."
Social media has been abuzz with hashtags like:
- #WTCFinal2027
- #ICCvsBCCI
- #EnglandGetsThree
🗓️ Schedule of WTC Finals
| Year | Final Venue | Tentative Date |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | Lord’s, London | June 10–14, 2027 |
| 2029 | The Oval | June 9–13, 2029 |
| 2031 | Old Trafford | June 11–15, 2031 |
Rain reserve days will be built in as standard.
🏆 What This Means for Test Cricket
🔄 Continuity
The WTC final now has a permanent “home,” at least temporarily.
🔎 Increased Prestige
Repeating the venue builds a sense of occasion — similar to how Wimbledon is always in London.
🌐 Global Expansion?
Some fans argue that rotating the venue would help grow Test cricket globally — maybe the ICC will listen after 2031.
🎯 Final Thoughts
The ICC’s decision to award England the next three WTC Finals is a monumental move that shapes the landscape of global Test cricket. While England celebrates, India and its fans are left questioning the transparency and fairness of cricket’s highest governing body.
It is clear that the ICC is attempting to maintain neutrality and prestige, but it must also remain mindful of the sport’s rapid expansion and the passionate fan bases outside England.
The BCCI’s rejection may not be the end — with strategic lobbying and consistent performance, India could very well host the WTC Final post-2031. Until then, all eyes are on Lord’s.
❓ Most Searched FAQs on This Topic
Q1. Why did ICC give all three WTC Finals to England?
A: The ICC chose England for its infrastructure, history, and neutrality. Despite BCCI’s bid, concerns over weather and bias led to India’s rejection.
Q2. Did India try to host the WTC Final?
A: Yes, the BCCI proposed hosting in Ahmedabad, but ICC rejected it citing monsoon weather and neutrality concerns.
Q3. Will other countries get to host WTC Finals in future?
A: Potentially yes, after 2031. The ICC hinted at rotating future finals if logistics and neutrality can be balanced.
Q4. Which venues will host the WTC Finals in England?
A: The finals will be played at Lord’s (2027), The Oval (2029), and Old Trafford (2031).
Q5. Is this a power struggle between ICC and BCCI?
A: Many analysts believe it reflects ongoing tension. The ICC aims to limit over-dominance by BCCI in cricket affairs.
Q6. Has India ever won a WTC Final?
A: As of now, India has reached multiple WTC Finals but has not yet lifted the trophy.
Q7. Will WTC Finals ever be hosted in India or Australia?
A: There’s growing demand, but the ICC has not committed to rotating WTC Final venues yet.