Rohit Sharma and Pat Cummins had raised objections about the World Test Championship (WTC) final being held every time at Lord’s.
The captains of the two finalist teams last time argued that organizing the final at the same venue each time is not ideal. However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) does not seem to be giving much importance to their opinions.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has expressed interest multiple times in hosting the WTC final. Still, the next three finals might also be held in England.
After the last final, Cummins had said, “The next final could be hosted in the country of the current champion, or we could think of something different. We need alternatives or changes though Lord’s is certainly a great venue.”
Rohit Sharma had questioned, “Why should the WTC final always be held after the IPL? This match could be played even in March. Why must we always play the final in June? It could be played at any time of the year, anywhere in the world. Why only in England? Let other countries host it too.”
Cricketers themselves have been questioning why the WTC final is repeatedly held in England. The BCCI wants to capitalize on this sentiment. BCCI officials are preparing to formally request the ICC to allow India to host the WTC final.
India played in the first two WTC finals but failed to qualify this time. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) hosted all three finals so far in Southampton the first time, then at The Oval, and now at Lord’s. The BCCI is keen to secure hosting rights for the next three finals.
If India officially places a bid, ICC officials are expected to consider it. However, the BCCI might have to wait eight more years, as ICC sources indicate that England could retain hosting rights until 2031.
The hosts for the next three WTC finals will be decided at the ICC’s annual meeting in July, to be held in Singapore. England has already expressed its interest to the ICC. The BCCI will also make its case. Both boards will be in contention, but England currently appears to be ahead in the race.
Why might the next three WTC finals also be held in England? According to a report by a national Indian news outlet, the WTC final usually takes place in mid-June a time when the monsoon season begins in most parts of India.
This raises concerns about the possibility of uninterrupted play. In contrast, England’s weather during this period is generally pleasant, with a lower risk of disruption. As a result, the ICC prefers England. Moreover, the ICC currently has no plans to change the international cricket calendar.
