The sight of Aiden Markram lifting the World Test Championship mace for the first time on Saturday in front of a packed crowd at Lord’s must have been a moment of joy that few can forget. South Africa had overcome the odds, ending a 27-year hoodoo by beating modern Goliath Australia to lift a prize that is the pinnacle of Test cricket. It was a day for the Proteas and their fans but also for billions of cricket followers worldwide who celebrated a team that was unafraid to take risks, to play for a cause, to fight for each other and ultimately to succeed.
The World Test Championship has only been around for two cycles, but the idea is starting to gain some momentum and add importance to bilateral series in an era of increasing franchise cricket. But there are some issues that need to be addressed if it is to be a success.
One of those is its reliance on India’s participation. While the 2021 and 2023 finals between India and New Zealand and between India and Australia were sold-out events, any future final in India could struggle to sell tickets unless it involves Pakistan, whose relations with India are hostile.
The World Test Championship is not perfect but it offers a chance to turn some of the world’s most iconic venues into global cricket festivals and attract a wider audience than ever before. It is an idea worth considering as it could help to ensure the future of the longest form of the game for years to come.