Amid the naysaying on this week’s World Test Championship final – with one of cricket’s most famous boozers decrying it as “a shambles masquerading as a showpiece” – there is a quiet sense that history may well be on the verge of repeating itself. And not a moment too soon, for the sport’s oldest format has struggled for context for a decade now.
The tournament is a new concept by the International Cricket Council designed to increase the importance of Test cricket in a world where most players also play in domestic T20 leagues. It runs for around two years and involves each country playing six series, three at home and three away.
This system also takes into account the fact that Test matches are played at certain times of year and some countries cannot play Tests during winter or monsoon seasons. This makes the amount of Tests that can be played each year very limited.
South Africa defeated Australia in their final at Lord’s, ending a 27-year trophy hoodoo and overcoming modern Goliaths to lift the famed mace. The victory earned Temba Bavuma and his team a huge amount of praise from billions across the world who watched on in rapt fascination, with legends such as India great Yuvraj Singh hailing their resilience and character. The Proteas’ triumph was a reminder of the magic and importance of the game that lies at its heart. The ICC have released a video building up excitement for this weekend’s big match featuring the likes of South African captain Temba Bavuma and ace fast bowler Kagiso Rabada.