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DUBAI: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a record prize money for the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023–25 Final, scheduled to be played at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11 to 15.
The total prize pot has been set at a staggering USD $5.76 million, more than double the amount awarded in the previous two cycles.
The champions of this edition will take home USD $3.6 million, a significant jump from the USD $1.6 million awarded to both New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023).
Meanwhile, the runners-up will pocket USD $2.16 million, compared to $800,000 in earlier editions.
South Africa were the first to book their place in the final, topping the WTC standings on the back of series victories against Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, along with a drawn home series against India.
Australia joined them by clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 3-1 against India, adding to earlier series wins over Pakistan, New Zealand, and Sri Lanka.
South African skipper Temba Bavuma expressed his pride and ambition ahead of the summit clash.
“We’re really pleased to have made the World Test Championship Final, which is a good opportunity for us to win an ICC title,” Bavuma said.
“Lord’s is a fitting venue for this mega fixture and all of us will be out there trying to give our best against Australia. The anticipation is increasing with less than one month to go.”
Australian captain Pat Cummins echoed similar sentiments as his side prepares to defend their title.
“We are enormously proud to have the opportunity to defend the World Test Championship, especially at Lord’s,” Cummins said.
“It’s a testament to all those involved over the last two years. We’re excited about the challenge South Africa will present at the home of cricket.”
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