Remarkably, India’s prize money is nearly equal to what Australia earned for winning the WTC 2023 Final, which was $1.6 million following their victory over India at The Oval. In the upcoming final, the winner between South Africa and Australia will take home a record $3.6 million, while the runners-up will receive over USD 2.1 million.
Referred to as the ‘Ultimate Test,’ the much-anticipated final between the red-ball titans South Africa and Australia is taking place today at the famous Lord’s Cricket Ground.
South Africa won the toss and chose to bowl first against the defending champions Australia in the World Test Championship final at Lord, influenced by the overcast conditions.
“Massive (occasion),” South Africa captain Temba Bavuma expressed. ”You can hear the South African accents in the stands as well. It should be a spectacle.”
In contrast to South Africa, Australia did not have a warmup match, but captain Pat Cummins stated that the team was prepared.
“Preparation has been unreal. All the guys in the team are ready to go,” Cummins commented. “We have had about 10 days of preparation. I don’t think there’s any extra pressure. We’ve been here before and won it. So it’s just about going out and enjoying it.”
The teams were announced on Tuesday. Australia opted for a new top order by promoting Marnus Labuschagne to open in a test for the first time, while putting Cameron Green at No. 3 for his first test in 15 months. Josh Hazlewood replaced Scott Boland in the pace attack.
South Africa reinstated Lungi Ngidi as the third seamer, making the only change to the squad from their last test in January in Cape Town, a four-day victory over Pakistan.
(With AP inputs)
