New Delhi, May 15 : With less than a month to go for the 2025 World Test Championship (WTC) final to happen between Australia and South Africa at Lord's, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the winners of the one-off game will earn double the prize money than previous two editions.

From the total prize money pool for the WTC 2023-25 cycle of USD 5.76 million, which already is more than double that of the previous two editions, the winners will walk away with USD 3.6 million (approximately standing at 30,79,48,931 Indian rupees), a significant jump from the USD 1.6 million awarded to winners of both 2021 and 2023 editions.

The runners-up, meanwhile, will earn USD 2.16 million (approximately 18,47,96,390 Indian rupees), which is also up from USD 800,000. India, the two-time WTC runners-up who finished at third place, will get 12,31,98,048 rupees. 'We have witnessed a very interesting third cycle of the ICC World Test Championship, where the finalists were decided only towards the end of the competition.'

'The championship has showcased remarkable performances from players of different teams, culminating in a final between these two exceptional squads - a true celebration of cricket.'

'I am sure spectators at Lord's, along with fans tuning in from all over the world, will be treated to some top-class cricket in this revered format when Australia and South Africa take the field less than a month from now. On behalf of the ICC, I extend best wishes to the players of both teams in their preparations for the prestigious match,' said ICC Chairman Jay Shah in a statement on Thursday.

South Africa topped the 2023-25 WTC standings and became the first team to secure a spot in the final at Lord's via series victories over Pakistan, West Indies, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, along with a drawn series against India at home. They are chasing to win their first WTC title.

'We're really pleased to have made the World Test Championship Final, which is a good opportunity for us to win an ICC title. Everyone understands the importance of Test cricket and the World Test Championship lends context to this vital format of the game.'

'Lord's is a fitting venue for this mega fixture and all of us will be out there trying to give our best against Australia. The anticipation is increasing with less than one month to go, and I am sure fans around the world would be following the fortunes of both teams come 11 June,' said South Africa skipper Temba Bavuma.

Australia, meanwhile, booked their place in the final with a 3-1 triumph over India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Their campaign also included a 3-0 sweep of Pakistan at home and away series wins over New Zealand and Sri Lanka, respectively. Australia are now aiming to make history as the tournament's first two-time champions.

'We are enormously proud to have the opportunity to defend the World Test Championship, especially at Lord's. It's a testament to all those involved across the past two years who have worked incredibly hard to reach the final, which is a great honour for all of us.'

'We very much look forward to getting together again in England in just a few weeks and the challenge South Africa will present at the home of cricket,' added Australia captain Pat Cummins.

/IANS