Shastri Calls for India or Australia to Host Future World Test Championship Finals

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has voiced his support for England as the current host of the World Test Championship (WTC) finals, but envisions a future where the prestigious event could be held in larger stadiums in India and Australia.

Former player and now commentator Ravi Shastri (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

His comments come as England has consistently hosted the WTC finals, with three consecutive championships taking place at various English grounds over the last six years. The inaugural World Test Championship final was held at the Rose Bowl in Southampton, where India faced New Zealand. The Oval then hosted the subsequent final, which saw Australia defeat India to claim the title. Most recently, Lord's Cricket Ground in London hosted the final where South Africa triumphed over Australia.

"I think to start off initially, it's good if it's here (Lord's) actually. Once it gets the popularity and eyebrows it deserves, then it can start shifting. But I think the MCG can be a great place for a World Test Championship Final. Ahmedabad can be a great place for the WTC Final. Basically, the places where you can draw a crowd. Because Lord's is not a 100,000-seater stadium. So, irrespective of which team is playing, you know you will get a good crowd," Shastri stated on a Wisden Cricket podcast.

The discussion around venue selection has intensified as England is slated to host the WTC finals for the next two cycles. According to the International Cricket Council's Future Tours Program, the 2027 WTC Final is scheduled for Lord's, with subsequent finals planned for 2029 and 2031.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) recent bid to host the 2027 WTC final was unsuccessful. The decision favored England due to its consistent support for neutral Test matches.

London venues have proven their ability to attract neutral cricket fans who appreciate Test cricket. However, Shastri's suggestion highlights the potential of hosting future championships at larger venues such as the Narendra Modi Stadium in India and the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia.

These alternative venues boast significantly larger seating capacities compared to traditional English cricket grounds, potentially accommodating more spectators as the World Test Championship gains greater popularity worldwide.

The evolution of WTC final venues reflects the ongoing development of Test cricket's premier championship event. While maintaining its current base in England, the tournament holds promise for geographical expansion as it continues to build its global appeal and fan base.

The continuing discussion about venue selection underscores the balance between tradition and growth in Test cricket's flagship event. England's role as the current host nation has established a strong foundation for the championship, while future opportunities remain open for expansion to other major cricket venues around the world.