The ICC has awarded England the hosting rights for all WTC finals till 2031, sidelining India. Meanwhile, Mongolia and Uzbekistan have joined as new associate members, expanding ICC’s reach to 110 nations.
Highlights:
- England to host WTC finals till 2031.
- India overlooked despite top-class cricket infrastructure.
- Mongolia, Uzbekistan join ICC as new members.
In a bold move that has stirred cricketing conversations across the globe, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has awarded the hosting rights for the World Test Championship (WTC) finals to England until 2031—bypassing India, the financial powerhouse of the sport. This decision marks a strategic tilt toward traditional venues and has raised eyebrows among fans and experts who expected India to get at least one final in the upcoming cycle.
The WTC final, introduced as the ultimate prize in Test cricket, has so far been hosted at The Oval and Lord’s. The continuation of this trend underscores the ICC’s preference for England’s historic venues, citing infrastructure, weather predictability in June, and global broadcast reach.
Two New Members Join ICC
Alongside this major decision, the ICC also expanded its global footprint by adding Mongolia and Uzbekistan as its newest associate members. This development brings the total membership of the ICC to 110, reaffirming its commitment to growing the game in non-traditional regions and tapping into new talent pools.
Why Was India Overlooked?
Despite India’s world-class stadiums like Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and Eden Gardens in Kolkata, logistical issues such as monsoon season in June and complications around broadcast timing have been cited as reasons for the decision. Some also argue that cricket’s governing body seeks to preserve a sense of neutrality and tradition for the WTC finals.
Reactions and What’s Next
While England celebrates its extended role as host, Indian fans have taken to social media questioning the ICC’s motives and transparency. Some see it as a missed opportunity to showcase India’s Test cricket culture on a grand stage.
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Meanwhile, the inclusion of Mongolia and Uzbekistan suggests cricket’s landscape is changing fast, moving beyond its colonial roots into a more global arena.