World Test Championship set for Oval finale in 2023, ICC confirm

The London venue to be the second ground to stage the event, following in the footsteps of the Ageas Bowl in 2021

The Kia Oval will host the 2023 World Test Championship final, the ICC has confirmed.

The London venue to be the second ground to stage the event, following in the footsteps of the Ageas Bowl in 2021. 

Lord's, which has originally been slated for both the 2021 and 2023 events, has now been confirmed as the host for the 2025 final.  

New Zealand won the inaugural World Test Championship, beating India by eight wickets. Australia and South Africa currently occupy the top two spots in the table for 2021-23 cycle.

ICC chief executive, Geoff Allardice, said: "We are delighted to be hosting next year's ICC World Test Championship final at The Oval which has such a rich legacy and an amazing atmosphere, which is ideal for such an important fixture on the calendar.

^{Lord's will host the final in 2025 [Gareth Copley/Getty Images]}

"Following that we will then take the 2025 final to Lord's which will provide a fitting backdrop to the ultimate Test.

"Last year's final between New Zealand and India in Southampton was an engrossing encounter and I am sure fans the world over would be looking forward to the next WTC final at The Oval."

Surrey CEO, Steve Elworthy, is looking forward to a "superb summer of cricket" at The Oval in 2023, commenting: "It’s a real honour that The Oval has been selected to host the final of the World Test Championship.

"To have the two best teams in the world playing here in south London will be a fantastic occasion.

"Next year promises to be a superb summer of cricket at The Oval and this match will be a brilliant part of it."

MCC chief executive, Guy Lavender, added: "We are delighted that Lord's will be hosting the ICC World Test Championship final in 2025. It is fantastic news that the ICC has opted to host the next two finals in London, with both grounds providing fitting venues for the culmination of the championship."