England will stage the next three ICC World Test Championship finals—in 2027, 2029 and 2031—after successfully hosting the inaugural three finals since 2021.
The decision, long anticipated following Lord’s hosting of South Africa’s five-wicket win over Australia last month, was formally approved at the ICC’s annual conference in Singapore. Although there had been talk of moving the final to India from 2027 onwards, the ICC praised the ECB’s proven ability to deliver sell-out crowds and high-profile neutral fixtures.
“We’re thrilled that England and Wales will host the next three WTC finals,” said ECB chief executive Richard Gould. “It shows how deeply fans here value Test cricket and the lengths supporters worldwide will go to experience these matches. We look forward to partnering with the ICC to build on our past successes.”
Traditionally held in June—immediately after the IPL and during a lull in other internationals—the final has benefited from England’s packed summer schedule. Lord’s sold out for the most recent final, echoing capacity crowds at The Oval in 2023 and the Hampshire Bowl’s biosecure event in 2021.
“We don’t claim any automatic right to keep the final here,” Gould told ESPNcricinfo in June. “But irrespective of who plays, we’ll sell it out. Few other nations can guarantee that. Moving it risks empty stadiums and devaluing the event.”
ICC chair Jay Shah praised the electric atmosphere at Lord’s, though the ICC has yet to decide if it will remain the fixed venue for all upcoming finals.