It’s not every day that the traditional format of cricket grabs headlines for prize money, but that’s exactly what’s happening now.

The ICC is throwing serious cash behind the World Test Championship Final, and it’s got fans and players buzzing.

Australia and South Africa are gearing up for a showdown at Lord’s from 11–15 June, and the stakes just got way higher—financially, at least.

Record-Breaking Prize Money for WTC Final

The ICC has officially confirmed a major increase in prize money for the 2025 WTC Final.

The winners will walk away with a cool $3.6 million (around R65.7 million).

That’s more than double what New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023) earned when they lifted the Test mace in the past two finals.

Even the runners-up will be rewarded handsomely this time, pocketing over $2.1 million (R38.3 million)—more than what past winners used to get.

It’s clear the ICC is putting real weight behind Test cricket, hoping to keep the momentum going after three competitive WTC cycles.

South Africa Earn Their Shot at Glory

The Proteas wrapped up their WTC campaign with a strong finish, sweeping both Sri Lanka and Pakistan in home series to end with 69.44 percentage points.

That was enough to seal their place in the final.

Defending champs Australia weren’t far behind, finishing with 67.54 points. India, despite leading the table for a good stretch, ended with 50.00 and just missed out.

The Trophy and the Talk

ICC Chair Jay Shah praised the level of cricket this WTC cycle and congratulated the finalists.

“It’s been a thrilling ride, and we’re all set for a fitting finale at Lord’s,” he said, hyping up what’s sure to be a memorable match.

Australian skipper Pat Cummins is excited to defend the title at such a prestigious venue: “It’s a huge honour.

We’re proud of the work our squad has put in over the last two years.”

South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma echoed the sentiment, saying the final is a big chance for his team to bring home an ICC title: “Everyone values Test cricket, and the WTC gives it real meaning.

Lord’s is the perfect place for this showdown.”

Who’s Playing and Who’s in Charge?

South Africa’s final squad features a blend of experience and youth, with 15 players and a 12-person support crew.

The team includes familiar faces like Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, and Marco Jansen, alongside rising stars like Tony de Zorzi and Ryan Rickelton.

Behind the scenes, head coach Shukri Conrad leads the charge, backed by a support staff that covers everything from batting and bowling to media and security.

WTC Prize Money Breakdown for All Teams

Here’s how the prize pot is being split across the nine participating teams:

Winner (Australia or South Africa) – $3,600,000
Runner-up (Australia or South Africa) – $2,160,000
3rd: India – $1,440,000
4th: New Zealand – $1,200,000
5th: England – $960,000
6th: Sri Lanka – $840,000
7th: Bangladesh – $720,000
8th: West Indies – $600,000
9th: Pakistan – $480,000

It’s not just a title at stake anymore—there’s real money on the table.

All Eyes on Lord’s: Can the Proteas Deliver?

South Africa has come close before but hasn’t lifted an ICC trophy in years.

This is a big moment, and with Lord’s as the stage, the spotlight is on them to make it count.

Australia, however, won’t give up their crown easily.

Expect fireworks, strategy, and edge-of-your-seat moments as two proud cricketing nations battle it out for the top prize in Test cricket.

So, can the Proteas pull off a historic win? That’s the big question heading into June.