In anticipation of The Ultimate Test, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a significant increase in prize money for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) and created a promotional film that includes a number of current and former stars.

More than twice as much as New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023) won after winning the previous two finals, the victors of the WTC Final, which will be played between Australia and South Africa at Lord’s from June 11–15, will take home a purse of US $3.6 million.

It is certain that the losing finalists will receive more than US $2.1 million this time, which is more than the previous top prize money. The previous two editions’ winners took home US $1.6 million, while the losing finalists took home US $800,000.

The ICC’s efforts to give Test cricket more importance as it seeks to build on the success of the first three cycles of the nine-team competition are demonstrated by the increase in prize money.

South Africa finished the third edition with 69.44 percentage points after defeating Pakistan and Sri Lanka 2-0 in their home series. India ended with 50.00 points after dominating the table for a considerable amount of time, while defending champions Australia finished with 67.54 points.

With their sights set on the Test Mace, ICC Chair Jay Shah wished the finalists all the well.

“The third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship was incredibly intriguing, with the finalists being determined only towards the end of the campaign. The final between these two outstanding teams is a true celebration of cricket, Shah added, after the championship included outstanding performances from players from many teams.

In less than a month, Australia and South Africa will play at Lord’s, and I’m confident that fans watching from around the globe will be treated to some of the best cricket in this cherished format. As the players of both sides get ready for the famous match, I wish them the best on behalf of the ICC,” he continued.

Good opportunity for us to win an ICC title: Temba Bavuma

Both captains too looked forward enthusiastically to playing at Lord’s, which hosts the WTC Final for the first time.

Australian captain Pat Cummins said: “We are enormously proud to have the opportunity to defend the World Test Championship, especially at Lord’s. It’s a testament to all those involved across the past two years who have worked incredibly hard to reach the final, which is a great honour for all of us.

“We very much look forward to getting together again in England in just a few weeks’ time and the challenge South Africa will present at the home of cricket.”

South African captain Temba Bavuma said: “We’re really pleased to have made the World Test Championship Final, which is a good opportunity for us to win an ICC title.

“Everyone understands the importance of Test cricket and the World Test Championship lends context to this vital format of the game. Lord’s is a fitting venue for this mega fixture and all of us will be out there trying to give our best against Australia.”

“The anticipation is increasing with less than one month to go, and I am sure fans around the world would be following the fortunes of both teams come 11 June.”

ICC World Test Championship prize money