The India team for the upcoming WTC Final and England Tour has been announced already. But, the controversy started to take place when it was found that Bhuvneshwar Kumar was not part of the Indian Test Team.

India's squad for the upcoming WTC Final & England Tour-

Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (Captain), Ajinkya Rahane (vice-captain), Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wicket-keeper), R. Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Ishant Sharma, Mohd. Shami, Md. Siraj, Shardul Thakur, Umesh Yadav, KL Rahul (subject to fitness clearance), Wriddhiman Saha (wicket-keeper; subject to fitness clearance).

Standby players: Abhimanyu Easwaran, Prasidh Krishna, Avesh Khan, Arzan Nagwaswalla.

Read Also: WTC Final: IND vs NZ All Players Stats, Records In England, WTC and against each other

However, there was no explanation of Bhuvi's exclusion from the BCCI and Selection panel yet. The rumours came that the ace Indian pacer does not want to play the longest format of the game anymore. Therefore, he wants to focus on the shorter formats of the game more.

Read Also: Bhuvneshwar Kumar's T20I records: Best from India.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who had some injury worries over the last two years had to be out of action most of the time. He played his last test three years back in 2018 against the South Africa team in Johannesburg. Bhuvi had taken 4 wickets in that test as well.

As there was a question raised about his "intent" on playing the Test cricket, Bhuvi had to answer that. Bhuvneshwar Kumar answered all those rumours with his tweet. He clearly said that "I have always prepared myself for all three formats irrespective of the team selection and will continue to do the same."

As his clarification clears the fact that Bhuvi still wants to don the whites for team India. But, it raises more question about his exclusion from the team.

The ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 saw some stellar batting performances. Some players have consistently showed how good they are with the bat, and secured their top spot. 

As the WTC 2023-25 is approaching its end, it is now time to look at those huge numbers by some sensational test batters.

Check out these names with most runs in WTC 2023-25.

1. Joe Root (1968 runs) | England 

Joe Root, who is in the top 5 for most runs in test career among some legendary test batters, holds the 1st rank for most runs in WTC 2023-25. He is a central figure for England in tests.

Root's contribution in the WTC 2023-25 cycle has been immense. He scored 1968 runs in 22 matches, with his highest score being 262 against Pakistan, which is the second-highest individual score by an English batter in WTC 2023-25 cycle.

He scored 7 centuries in this cycle, which is unmatched so far.

Read Also: Joe Root to break Sachin Tendulkar's Record of Runs In Test Cricket, predicts Ricky Ponting

Joe Root stats in WTC 2023-2025

2. Yashasvi Jaiswal (1789 runs) | India

Yashasvi Jaiswal made his debut in test cricket during the WTC 2023-25 cycle and his journey was nothing short of sensational. He emerged as the highest run-scorer for India and holds the 2nd rank for most runs in WTC 2023-25.

He scored a total of 1798 runs in 19 matches, with 2 back-to-back double centuries against England, which showcased his ability to dominate in this format.

Read Also: IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal becomes fastest Indian to complete 1000 runs in Test cricket

Yashasvi Jaiswal stats in WTC 2023-2025

3. Ben Duckett (1470 runs) | England 

The opening batter for England, Ben Duckett, was phenomenal in the WTC 2023-25 cycle. He consistently provided decent starts to his team with the kind of explosive batting he is known for.

Ben scored 1470 runs in 22 matches and holds the 3rd rank for most runs in WTC 2023-25. He scored 2 centuries during his campaign and proved to be one of the key batters for England.

Read Also: Highest wicket-takers in WTC 2023-25

Ben Duckett stats in WTC 2023-2025

Other players with 1400+ runs in WTC 2023-25

The England batters have purely dominated the list for most runs in WTC 2023-25, with their 3 batters appearing in top 5. Harry Brook is the third batter from England who is in the top 5 of this list, having 1400+ runs.

Australian batters like Steve Smith and Travis Head also performed brilliantly in this championship, but only Usman Khawaja could make it to the top 5 by having a 1400+ runs in total.

Read Also: WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squads

The list will look different after the WTC final between Australia and South Africa, but here is what has happened so far.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has raised the prize money for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, announcing a massive $3.6 million prize for the winners of the upcoming final between Australia and South Africa, set to take place at Lord’s from June 11-15.

This record-breaking purse, more than double the $1.6 million awarded to previous champions New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023), underlines the ICC’s commitment to elevating Test cricket’s prestige and importance.

The losing finalists will also walk away with a hefty $2.1 million, surpassing the prize money awarded to past winners. This significant financial boost reflects the ICC’s push to sustain the momentum of the nine-team competition, now in its third thrilling cycle.

Read Also | Highest wicket-takers in WTC 2023-25

WTC Final Details

The stage is set for a clash of titans at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, hosting its first-ever WTC Final. South Africa, buoyed by commanding 2-0 home series wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan, clinched their spot with 69.44 percentage points.

Defending champions Australia, finishing with 67.54 points, are eager to retain the Test Mace in what promises to be a fiercely contested battle.

Read Also | Fav four in Test cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith stats in Tests

ICC Chair Jay Shah expressed his excitement, stating, “The third cycle of the World Test Championship has been captivating, with the finalists decided only in the closing stages. Australia and South Africa will deliver a fitting celebration of Test cricket at Lord’s, and I’m confident fans worldwide will witness top-class action.”

A battle of wills, minds and hearts in the Ultimate Test 👊

The #WTC25 Final at Lord's is upon us 🏟 pic.twitter.com/JsNXpmgOXD

— ICC (@ICC) May 15, 2025

What did the captains say?

Australian captain Pat Cummins, reflecting on the honour of defending their title, said, “Playing at Lord’s for the World Test Championship is a proud moment for us. South Africa will bring a tough challenge, and we’re ready to give it our all at the home of cricket.”

South Africa’s Temba Bavuma echoed the sentiment, emphasising the significance of the occasion. “Reaching the WTC Final is a huge opportunity to win an ICC title. Lord’s is the perfect stage, and we’re determined to put our best foot forward against Australia.”

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Prize Money Breakdown

The increased prize money extends beyond the finalists, with the full breakdown as follows:

• Winner: $3,600,000

• Runners-up: $2,160,000

• Third (India): $1,440,000

• Fourth (New Zealand): $1,200,000

• Fifth (England): $960,000

• Sixth (Sri Lanka): $840,000

• Seventh (Bangladesh): $720,000

• Eighth (West Indies): $600,000

• Ninth (Pakistan): $480,000

As the ICC World Test Championship 2023-2025 is getting closer to the grand final, it is now time to look back at the bowlers with standout performances. They have constantly troubled batsmen which led to their team's success.

Who do you think are the ones with most wickets? Take a look at the highest wicket-takers in WTC 2023-25.

Jasprit Bumrah | India

Jasprit Bumrah had a remarkable campaign in WTC 2023-25 cycle and has taken the most number of wickets. He took 77 wickets in 15 matches, with an average of 15.09. 

Bumrah recorded five 5-wicket hauls in the cycle and also had his best bowling figure of 6/45 in an innings against England.

Read Also: Jasprit Bumrah becomes first-ever player to pick 200 Test wickets with an average below 20

Jasprit Bumrah stats in WTC 2023-2025

Pat Cummins | Australia 

The Australian skipper, Pat Cummins, has done wonders with the ball, by taking 73 wickets in 17 matches. He is the leading wicket taker for Australia and can also be on top by showcasing his wicket-taking skills in the WTC final against South Africa. 

His best bowling performance in the tournament was a 6-wicket haul for 91 runs.

Pat Cummins stats in WTC 2023-2025

Read Also: WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squads

Mitchell Starc | Australia 

Yet another Australian legend to feature in this list, who is just behind Cummins by one wicket. This fiery left-arm pacer have always been a key bowling of their team. He took 72 wickets in 18 matches total.

Mitchell Starc's best bowling figure in WTC 2023-25 includes a 6-wicket haul for 48 runs.

Mitchell Starc stats in WTC 2023-2025

Other players with 60+ wickets in WTC 2023-25

Seems like the Aussies and Indians have purely dominated the bowling sides and got most wickets up their sleeves.

Read Also: Fav four in Test cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith stats in Tests

Here are the other players who crossed the 60 wickets mark and deserves a shoutout in the list of highest wicket-takers in WTC 2023-25.

After the Champions Trophy 2025, India's target in ODI cricket will be the ODI World Cup 2027. In such a situation, know what is Team India's ODI schedule till the World Cup 2027. The Men in Blue have to play a total of 9 series in the next ICC ODI tournament, which includes 27 matches.

Apart from this, some more ODI matches can be scheduled near the tournament. So, know what is the ODI schedule of Indian Cricket Team till 2027 and when India will face which team.

Also Read: The Kohli Effect: Will Indian fans lose interest in Test cricket after Virat Kohli's retirement?

The ODI World Cup2027 will be held around October to December. Before this, the Indian team is going to play a lot of matches. India have to play 3-match ODI series against 8 teams. They will play series twice against one country.

India will play New Zealand twice

India will play Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, England, South Africa, West Indies and Sri Lanka once each in the upcoming ODI series, while it will play New Zealand twice. Out of the nine series, India will play six series at home, while the rest will be held outside the country.

It will start with the tour of Bangladesh in August, which will be played this year. In October-November 2025, India has to play a three-match ODI series on its tour of Australia. South Africa's team will tour India in November-December.

India will host Sri Lankan team in December 2026

In January 2026, the New Zealand team will play an ODI series in India. After this, India has to play a three-match series against Afghanistan in June. In July 2026, Team India will have to play the same number of ODI series on its tour of England.

The West Indies team is scheduled to tour India in September-October. There will be an ODI series against New Zealand at home in October-November. India will host the Sri Lankan team for an ODI series in December 2026.

Also Read: Fav four in Test cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith stats in Tests

India's ODI schedule till World Cup 2027

World Test Championship (WTC) finalist South Africa and Australia have announced their squad. The WTC Final match will be played at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground on June 11.

Also Read: Fav four in Test cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith stats in Tests

Ngidi back in Proteas squad

The Proteas have been strengthened by the return of Lungi Ngidi, who was out of action for most of the domestic summer season due to a back injury. Ngidi was part of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025.

South Africa has made only two changes in its team from the last Test series against Pakistan. Ngidi has been included in place of young player Kwena Maphaka, while top order batsman Matthew Breetzke has not been included.

Proteas Men’s head coach Shukri Conrad has today announced the 15-player squad for the highly anticipated ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia, taking place from 11 – 15 June at Lord’s Cricket Ground in London.

Temba Bavuma will lead the side, with the pace… pic.twitter.com/e76WCrd2zl

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) May 13, 2025

Bavuma to lead the team

Temba Bavuma will lead the team. He helped South Africa finish first in the WTC standings. The team won many games under his captaincy. He has done well as a leader.

The top-order batters include Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, and Ryan Rickelton. These players have scored runs in recent matches. They can handle tough bowling attacks.

David Bedingham and Tristan Stubbs are part of the middle-order. They are in good form. Bavuma also bats in the middle order. Kyle Verreynne will keep wickets. He is quick and can score runs fast.

Strong bowling attack

South Africa’s bowling attack is strong. Kagiso Rabada is their top pacer. He is back in the team. The fast bowler had a one-month break due to a ban. He completed a rehab program. Now, he can play again.

Lungi Ngidi joins Rabada. Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, and Dane Paterson complete the pace unit. All can bowl fast and take wickets.

Keshav Maharaj leads the spin group. Senuran Muthusamy is the second spinner. They both have good control and experience.

Cameron Green return to Australian squad

Earlier, defending champion Australia also announced its squad today for WTC Final. The Kangaroo team has almost the same members who played against India and Sri Lanka earlier this year. This same Australian team will play a three-match Test series in the West Indies starting June 25.

Cameron Green's return to the Test squad after back surgery also has been confirmed, with spinner Matt Kuhnemann also included. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood missed Australia's most recent Test series in Sri Lanka due to injury, while Green is in line to make his first Test appearance in more than 12 months after recovering from back surgery.

Big names return in Australia's squad for next month's World Test Championship Final against South Africa at Lord's 👊

More on their squad for the #WTC25 decider 👉 https://t.co/v12jK8PQ22 pic.twitter.com/1vbXm4FmRi

— ICC (@ICC) May 13, 2025

Australia's squad full of experience

Australia's squad is full of experience and at full strength for the Proteas' clash with Cummins joined by fellow quicks Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Hazlewood in a 15-player squad that also has two spinning options in Nathan Lyon and Matt Kuhnemann.

Meanwhile, teenager Sam Konstas is also included, with Green and fellow all-rounder Beau Webster battling it out with key batters Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head and Josh Inglis for a spot in the XI.

On the other hand, Inglis can provide support for first-choice keeper Alex Carey, while Brendan Doggett will travel with the squad as a reserve.

Also Read: IPL 2025 to resume from 17th May: Here is the revised schedule

WTC Final | Squads

Australia

Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster. 

Travelling Reserve: Brendan Dogget

South Africa

Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, Dane Paterson, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy.