Shastri Calls for WTC Final to Expand Beyond Lord's, Eyes India and Australia

Former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has voiced his support for England as the current host of the World Test Championship (WTC) finals, but also proposed a future shift to larger stadiums in India and Australia as the event gains more traction globally.

Shastri suggests expanding the WTC final to venues in India and Australia.

England has consistently hosted the WTC finals, with three consecutive championships held at different venues across the country in the last six years. The inaugural final between India and New Zealand took place at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The Oval then witnessed Australia's victory over India. The most recent final was held at Lord's Cricket Ground in London, where South Africa defeated Australia.

Shastri stated during a Wisden Cricket podcast, "I think to start off initially, it's good if it's here (Lord's) actually. Once it gets the popularity and eyebrows it deserves, then it can start shifting. But I think the MCG can be a great place for a World Test Championship Final. Ahmedabad can be a great place for the WTC Final… Because Lord's is not a 100,000-seater stadium. So, irrespective of which team is playing, you know you will get a good crowd."

The debate surrounding venue selection has intensified, as England is anticipated to continue hosting the WTC finals for the upcoming two cycles. The International Cricket Council's Future Tours Program indicates that the 2027 WTC Final will be at Lord's, with subsequent finals scheduled for 2029 and 2031.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) attempt to secure the 2027 WTC final was unsuccessful, with England being favored due to its consistent support for neutral Test matches.

London venues have proven their ability to attract neutral fans who appreciate Test cricket. However, Shastri's proposal highlights the potential of hosting future championships at larger venues such as the Narendra Modi Stadium in India and the Melbourne Cricket Ground in Australia.

These alternative venues provide significantly larger seating capacities compared to traditional English grounds, potentially accommodating more spectators as the World Test Championship gains popularity among global cricket fans.

The evolution of WTC final venues mirrors the growth of Test cricket's premier championship. While maintaining its current base in England, the tournament demonstrates potential for geographical expansion as it continues to build its global appeal and fan base.

The ongoing discussion about venue selection underscores the balance between tradition and growth in Test cricket's flagship event. England's role as the current host nation has established a solid foundation for the championship, while future opportunities remain open for expansion to other major cricket venues worldwide.