The ICC Test Championship is a top-level tournament that crowns the best team in Test cricket, the game’s oldest format. Started in 2019, it adds meaning to every Test series by awarding points over two years, leading to a final between the top two teams.
New Zealand won the first title in 2021, followed by Australia in 2023. In 2025, South Africa claimed their maiden crown with a memorable win over Australia at Lord’s.
This article covers all ICC Test Championship winners and key moments from each final.
ICC Test Championship Winners
Have a look here to know which teams have won this championship until now:
| Year | Winner | Runner Up | Venue | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | New Zealand | India | Southampton | NZ won by 8 wickets |
| 2023 | Australia | India | The Oval | Aus won by 209 runs |
| 2025 | South Africa | Australia | The Lord’s | SA won by 5 wickets |
The following section will give you a brief overview of the three finals played as of 2025:
1. 2021 ICC World Test Championship Winner: New Zealand
New Zealand, led by Kane Williamson, showed impressive skill and control. They restricted India to 170 runs in the second innings, setting a modest target.
New Zealand’s calm and steady approach helped them chase down the target comfortably.
Kyle Jamieson stood out as the Player of the Match. His exceptional all-round performance included taking crucial wickets that kept India on the back foot and adding useful runs with the bat.
This victory was historic for New Zealand as it marked their first ICC World Test Championship title. As the inaugural champions, New Zealand achieved a memorable win that highlighted their strength and resilience in Test cricket.
2. 2023 ICC World Test Championship Winner: Australia
Under Pat Cummins’ leadership, Australia displayed a commanding performance. They scored a hefty 469 in their first innings, setting a strong foundation.
Australia then put pressure on India, restricting them to 234 in their second innings, securing a decisive 209-run victory.
Travis Head was awarded Player of the Match for his remarkable batting display, scoring a century in the first innings. His performance was instrumental in establishing Australia’s early lead in the game.
This win gave Australia their first ICC World Test Championship title. For India, this final was a second setback, as they ended as runners-up once again, emphasizing Australia’s strength and India’s continuing struggle in finals.
3. 2025 ICC World Test Championship Winner: South Africa
South Africa made history by winning their first ICC Test Championship title in 2025, ending a long wait for a major ICC trophy. Facing Australia at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, the Proteas chased down a target of 282 with remarkable composure.
Aiden Markram’s unbeaten century and a steady partnership with captain Temba Bavuma guided them to a memorable five-wicket victory. This win not only showcased their resilience but also marked a new era in South African Test cricket.
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Conclusion: South Africa Joins the List of ICC Test Championship Winners
The ICC Test Championship has brought new energy and purpose to the traditional format of cricket, giving every Test series higher stakes. New Zealand’s historic win in 2021 laid the foundation, while Australia followed up with a commanding title run in 2023.
In 2025, South Africa finally broke their ICC trophy drought, securing a memorable victory at Lord’s and becoming the third team to lift the Test Championship mace. Their win reflects the rising competition and unpredictability of the tournament.
As teams now look ahead to the 2025–27 cycle, the ICC Test Championship remains a true test of skill, consistency, and character, keeping fans engaged and Test cricket alive at the highest level.
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