WTC Final: What happens if Australia vs South Africa match ends in a draw?

The Word Test Championship Final is set to begin as Australia look to defend their title against South Africa at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground on Wednesday.

If the WTC final ends in a draw or a tie, the World Test Championship mace will be shared between Australia and South Africa. This was the regulation since its inception in 2021.

Unlike bilateral Test series, where a draw simply concludes the contest with no winner, this being a championship final means both teams will be crowned joint winners if no result is possible.

WTC Final: Is there a reserve day?

Yes, the ICC has kept June 16 as a reserve day, which will be used only if net playing time lost during the scheduled five days is not recovered via extended sessions. The sixth day can add up to a maximum of 90 overs if required.

If the five scheduled days allow full innings and time for results, even with weather interruptions, and still end in a draw or tie, the reserve day won’t be activated.

WTC Final: Prize Money

Alongside the prestigious mace, the champion and the runner up will receive cash prize. The ICC has significantly raised the prize money for the 2023–25 WTC cycle.

• Winners: USD $3.6 million
• Runners-up: USD $2.16 million

A Tale of Two Legacies

Australia, led by Pat Cummins, are eying to be the first team to defend the WTC mace after their dominant win over India in the 2023 final. Their squad, brimming with experience, includes star names like Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, and Marnus Labuschagne.

In contrast, South Africa are chasing history. Temba Bavuma’s men are looking to end a 27-year ICC trophy drought. Since winning the 1998 ICC KnockOut, South Africa have consistently faltered in knockout stages. This final offers them a shot at redemption and a fresh legacy.