Top 5 Best Matches in WTC History

The World Test Championship (WTC) has revitalized Test cricket by adding a competitive edge to the longest format of the game. Over its cycles, the WTC has produced numerous thrilling encounters, showcasing the drama, strategy, and endurance that make Test cricket unique. These matches have left fans on the edge of their seats, etching unforgettable moments in the history of the sport.

In this blog, we’ll relive the Top 5 Best Matches in WTC History, highlighting why these games remain iconic in the annals of cricket.

1. India vs. New Zealand: WTC Final 2021

Venue: The Ageas Bowl, Southampton
Result: New Zealand won by 8 wickets

The inaugural WTC Final was a monumental clash between India and New Zealand. Both teams had dominated the WTC cycle and were equally poised to claim the title. The weather played spoilsport initially, with rain interrupting the match frequently. However, this only added to the drama.

Key Highlights:

• Kyle Jamieson’s exceptional five-wicket haul in the first innings, dismantling India’s batting lineup.
• Devon Conway and Kane Williamson’s resilience under testing conditions.
• Ravichandran Ashwin’s brilliant bowling, keeping India in the hunt.
• New Zealand’s calm and composed chase, led by Williamson and Ross Taylor, ensured the Kiwis were crowned champions.

This match not only showcased the essence of Test cricket but also marked the beginning of an era in the WTC.

2. Australia vs. India: The Gabba Thriller (2021)

Venue: The Gabba, Brisbane
Result: India won by 3 wickets

Dubbed as one of the greatest Test matches of all time, India’s historic win at The Gabba during their WTC campaign is a story of grit and determination. The fortress of Australian cricket, The Gabba, hadn’t seen a visiting team win since 1988, making India’s victory even more special.

Key Highlights:

• Shubman Gill’s fearless 91 in the second innings set the tone for the chase.
• Cheteshwar Pujara’s gritty knock, absorbing countless blows but standing tall.
• Rishabh Pant’s match-winning 89*, filled with audacious shots under immense pressure.
• Mohammed Siraj’s maiden five-wicket haul, leading a young and depleted Indian bowling attack.

This victory not only sealed the series for India but also strengthened their position in the WTC standings, proving that perseverance pays off.

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3. England vs. New Zealand: The Edgbaston Classic (2022)

Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham
Result: New Zealand won by 1 run

This match was a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing everything that makes Test cricket special. England and New Zealand went toe-to-toe in a thrilling encounter that was decided in the final moments.

Key Highlights:

• Devon Conway’s stunning double century in the first innings set the tone for New Zealand.
• England’s spirited fightback with the bat, thanks to Joe Root and Ollie Pope.
• Trent Boult and Tim Southee’s relentless bowling effort to keep New Zealand in the game.
• The nail-biting finish, where England fell just one run short of the target, cemented this game as an all-time classic.

This match encapsulated the uncertainty of Test cricket, proving that every run counts in the WTC.

4. Pakistan vs. Australia: Karachi Marathon (2022)

Venue: National Stadium, Karachi
Result: Draw

The Karachi Test was a testament to the resilience and endurance required in Test cricket. It ended in a hard-fought draw, but the journey to that result was nothing short of epic.

Key Highlights:

• Usman Khawaja’s masterful century, leading Australia’s charge in the first innings.
• Babar Azam’s heroic 196 in the second innings, batting for over 10 hours to save the match.
• Abdullah Shafique’s stoic support alongside Babar in their marathon partnership.
• Australia’s relentless bowling attack, with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon giving their all till the last session.

This match demonstrated the art of survival in Test cricket, a hallmark of the WTC.

5. Sri Lanka vs. West Indies: Galle Spin Fest (2021)

Venue: Galle International Stadium, Galle
Result: Sri Lanka won by 187 runs

In a clash dominated by spin, Sri Lanka and the West Indies produced an enthralling contest. The turning pitch at Galle tested the skills and patience of both teams, ultimately resulting in a memorable victory for Sri Lanka.

Key Highlights:

• Dimuth Karunaratne’s sublime century in the first innings, laying the foundation for Sri Lanka.
• Ramesh Mendis and Lasith Embuldeniya’s spin magic, accounting for most of the West Indies’ wickets.
• Nkrumah Bonner’s valiant effort to resist the Sri Lankan attack, albeit in vain.
• The roaring support from the Galle crowd, reminding everyone of the passionate following Test cricket enjoys in Sri Lanka.

This match was a spin bowler’s delight and showcased the unique challenges of Test cricket under the WTC framework.

What Makes These Matches Iconic?

1. High Stakes

Every match in the WTC carries added significance, as teams vie for crucial points to qualify for the final. This competitive edge elevates the intensity of the contests.

2. Unpredictability

The WTC has proven that Test cricket remains the most unpredictable format, with matches swinging back and forth, often decided in the final moments.

3. Individual Brilliance

The best matches in WTC history are often defined by extraordinary performances, whether it’s a bowler’s fiery spell or a batter’s marathon innings.

4. Global Appeal

With matches played across continents, the WTC has brought a global flavor to Test cricket, appealing to fans worldwide.

Conclusion

The Top 5 Best Matches in WTC History are a testament to why Test cricket is considered the ultimate format of the game. These contests, filled with drama, strategy, and resilience, have not only entertained fans but also elevated the profile of the World Test Championship.

As we look forward to the WTC Final 2025, one can only hope for more such unforgettable encounters. Which match is your favorite in WTC history? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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