WTC Final breaks new records in live broadcast and digital records

The ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2025, which saw South Africa and Australia play at Lord's, has created a new record for broadcast and digital viewing in India. The match that happened from June 11 to June 14 that had great drama ended with South Africa winning by five wickets in their first WTC title.

This third edition of the WTC Final became Star Sports network’s highest-rated and most-watched non-India Test match on television, clocking an impressive 2.94 billion minutes of viewing and reaching 47 million viewers. On digital platforms, the match recorded 225 million views—the highest ever for a non-India Test—nearly matching the audience figures for the 2023 final between India and Australia at The Oval.

A total of 109,227 fans went to Lord's over four days, further demonstrating the fixture's appeal. There were also some astounding performances from Aiden Markram, who scored 136 to win the match in the fourth innings, and Kagiso Rabada, who took nine wickets in the match, which helped South Africa achieve a famous victory.

Jay Shah Hails Global Passion for Test Cricket and Broadcast Excellence

ICC Chairman Jay Shah highlighted the significance of the record-breaking viewership numbers with the news, particularly in India.

“The remarkable viewership numbers for the ICC World Test Championship Final, across both broadcast and digital platforms, are a powerful testament to the appeal of high-quality Test cricket and the elevated context of the WTC Final,” said Shah.
“This format continues to command a loyal and passionate global following and remains an integral part of our sport’s identity.”

The remarkable broadcast and digital audience numbers in India for the @ICC #WTC25 Final clearly shows this format of our sport commands a dedicated following. A special mention to @StarSportsIndia and @JioHotstar for their innovative and immersive coverage of the Ultimate Test. pic.twitter.com/cH4WMGm1qW

— Jay Shah (@JayShah) July 1, 2025

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He also applauded the role of the ICC’s broadcast partner in enhancing the match experience for viewers.
“A special mention to JioStar, whose innovative and immersive coverage captured the drama, emotion, and atmosphere of the ‘Ultimate Test’ in a way that deeply resonated with audiences around the world.”

“What makes this success even more special is the enthusiasm shown by fans in regions beyond the two competing nations, reaffirming that cricket’s reach is truly international and that the purest form of the game can thrive beyond national affiliations.”