The World Test Championship launched in 2019 with the aim of adding significance to bilateral Test series by introducing a points system over a two-year cycle. Its premise is that the highest performing teams will be rewarded with greater scheduling opportunities while the weaker sides will find it easier to maintain their level. This is a similar model to the one used in cricket’s other global events, with the World Cup in ODIs and T20Is rewarding the best teams.
But despite the inaugural final in 2021 being hailed as “just desserts” for a golden generation that had failed to reach the top of the white-ball game, the current format has come under fire, with Wisden editor Lawrence Booth claiming it was designed on the back of a cigarette packet. His harsh assessment highlights a number of issues with the championship that are exacerbated by a lack of transparency and the fact that it doesn’t have a clear winner.
South Africa ripped the title mace from Australia’s callused grip at Lord’s, winning a riveting final by more than 50 runs thanks to Aiden Markram’s magnificent hundred and Temba Bavuma’s crucial fifty. It ended years of tournament heartache for the Proteas, who also lost their last two ICC trophies in the same fashion. This article outlines three key issues that emerged from the final and how they could be addressed in future.