The Proteas have officially cemented their place at the summit of world Test cricket. This follows a monumental five-wicket victory over Australia in the ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord’s. While their name now echoes through the halls of cricketing greatness, the squad is also celebrating a significant financial windfall. This comes after lifting the coveted trophy.
First ICC Title Since 1998
Led by skipper Temba Bavuma, the national side ended a decades-long drought of major ICC titles. They became the first senior South African team since the 1998 Champions Trophy to win a global competition. Their four-day masterclass in London saw them overpower Pat Cummins’ Australian side. It was a thrilling encounter that will be remembered for years.
Aiden Markram was the standout performer. He scored a sublime 136 in the second innings to spearhead South Africa’s chase of 282. Bavuma himself added a crucial 66. Meanwhile, Kagiso Rabada wreaked havoc with the ball, claiming an impressive nine wickets in the match.
Cash Windfall Awaits Proteas
In addition to the glory, the players and coaching staff are set to enjoy a handsome bonus. The International Cricket Council (ICC) confirmed that the winners’ purse for this year’s final stands at $3.6 million – approximately R65 million. This amount is a substantial increase compared to previous editions of the World Test Championship.
For context, New Zealand received $1.6 million when they won in 2021, and Australia earned the same amount in 2023. This year’s prize money not only doubles the previous tally but also reflects the growing prestige of the competition.
The winnings are expected to be split among the playing squad and team staff. It will reward them for their consistent performances throughout the Test cycle that led to this historic moment.
Australia Also Benefit Despite Defeat
Despite finishing as runners-up, Australia are also walking away with a significant payout. The ICC confirmed that the losing finalists will earn $2.1 million (about R38 million). This is still a considerable increase from the $800,000 previously awarded to second-place finishers.
Full Breakdown of ICC World Test Championship Earnings
The ICC has released the complete list of prize allocations based on final standings:
- 1st – South Africa: $3.6 million (≈R65 million)
- 2nd – Australia: $2.16 million (≈R38 million)
- 3rd – India: $1.44 million
- 4th – New Zealand: $1.2 million
- 5th – England: $960,000
- 6th – Sri Lanka: $840,000
- 7th – Bangladesh: $720,000
- 8th – West Indies: $600,000
- 9th – Pakistan: $480,000
This year’s structure clearly rewards consistency and excellence in the longest format of the game. All nine competing teams receive a portion of the prize pool.
Proteas Players Celebrate a Dream Realised
Speaking after the final, several Proteas players echoed the sentiment that “dreams do come true”. The triumph not only restores pride in the country’s Test cricket legacy. It also marks a turning point in the national team’s history.
With a major ICC title finally secured, the team has a multi-million rand cheque to show for it. This generation of South African cricketers has now etched its name into sporting folklore. They are not only world champions but also worthy recipients of the richest prize ever awarded in the World Test Championship.
Related article: Temba Bavuma: Winning Another Major Cricket Title Would Be Special for SA
