The BCCI's wish to host the World Test Championship (WTC) 2027 final in India was snubbed by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as the apex body awarded the hosting rights of the WTC final between 2027 and 2031 to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). England hosted the first three editions of the WTC final in 2021, 2023 and 2025, after which there were calls to host the final in other countries for the sake of parity and variety, but the ICC decided otherwise.

Why England Was Retained As WTC Final Host?

The ICC took the decision during its annual meeting in Singapore and confirmed the development via a media statement. The ICC's decision was influenced by England's successful hosting of the WTC finals, which were attended by a decent crowd, despite the host not making it to the final. New Zealand defeated India in the maiden final in 2021 before Australia thrashed India to win the 2023 final.

Any match involving India is expected to draw huge fans, but the recent WTC final, where South Africa beat Australia, was also a big hit, with the stands mostly filled on all days.

“The Board also confirmed the awarding of hosting rights for the ICC World Test Championship Finals for the 2027, 2029, and 2031 editions to the England and Wales Cricket Board, following a successful track record in hosting recent finals,” stated the ICC’s press release.

India is a cricket crazy nation, and the WTC final surely would be a big hit if the match takes place in India. However, there are concerns about low fan turnout if India fail to make it to the summit clash. Secondly, the Pakistan factor could also be a big issue. Pakistan won't play in India, and if they reach the final, the match would have to be moved out of the country, which is not feasible for a WTC final.