World Test Championship Final 2023 is officially in the history books. The Australian cricket team became the new winners of the WTC after a big win against Team India in the finals. This was India’s second consecutive defeat in WTC Finals.
Back in 2021, New Zealand beat India to win the World Test Championship. After losing the finals, Virat Kohli suggested in 2021 that there should be a three-match series in the final. Even Rohit Sharma repeated the same statement in his post-match press conference of WTC Finals 2023.
While Rohit and Virat have voiced their opinions as players and captains, here are three reasons why Best of 3 Finals for WTC makes no sense.
1. The final of World Test Championship would go on for 20 days
If ICC decides to have a three-match series in the finals of WTC, the three matches would go on for 15 days. Plus, there will be at least two or three rest days between the matches. Thus, the finals will go on for 20 days. Every cricket team has a tight window with regards to international cricket. It is tough to ask any cricket board to take 20 days out of their schedule for a final.
2. Other formats of cricket also have 1 final
WTC is not the only tournament organized by ICC. The International Cricket Council also organizes U-19 World Cup, 50-over World Cup, T20 World Cup, Women’s World Cup, Women’s T20 World Cup and Women’s U-19 T20 World Cup.
In all these tournaments, there is only one final. No one argues there that there should be three finals. Even in other sports, tennis tournaments and FIFA World Cup have one final only.
3. Demands will further increase from players if ICC changes World Test Championship to best of 3
If ICC implements this suggestion, a few years down the line, players may even suggest that the three matches should be played at home, opponent’s home and neutral venue. This can create logistical issues for the broadcasters and organizers. If a Best of 3 does not satisfy the players, they may even ask for a Best of 5 in future. Thus, sticking with 1 final is the best solution.
