Big challenges await Australia on the road to WTC Final
Tough series at home and away await the 2023 WTC champions as they look to secure their spot in the summit clash for a third successive time.
The two-time ICC World Test Championship Finalists, Australia have big challenges in their path as they eye their spot in a third WTC Final next year.
Currently sitting atop the WTC Standings with seven wins from their eight outings, the runner-ups from last year’s summit clash are coming on the back of a strong 4-1 Ashes win.
Cricket Australia confirmed that the next assignment for the men’s team will see them lock horns against Bangladesh in a two-Test series away from home in August 2026.
This will be followed by a much-anticipated three-match series in South Africa in October. The two teams had previously met each other in the WTC Final at Lord's last year, with the Proteas emerging triumphant in a historic win.
To wrap up their year, Australia will take on Trans-Tasman rivals, New Zealand in four Tests at home. The series part of the ongoing WTC cycle will stretch into 2027.
In what is going to be a quick turnaround, Australia will then head to India for a blockbuster five-match series for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
The series, stretching from January to March 2027, will mark their final assignment in the ongoing WTC cycle, with much to play for the Pat Cummins-led side. The last time the two teams met, Cummins and co. had emerged victorious in a 3-1 series win at home, ending a decade-long wait to defeat India in a Test series.
South Africa beat Australia to seize the Ultimate Test | Full Match Highlights | WTC25 Final
Watch the full match highlights as Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada led the way as South Africa bested the defending champions Australia to clinch the World Test Championship mace at Lord's.
Having started their 2025-27 cycle with a 3-0 series win against the West Indies, Australia delivered a comprehensive display at home against England to keep a stellar 87.50 PCT at the top of the standings.
Australia will also play a showpiece Day-Night Test against England in March to mark the 150th anniversary of the first Test match. The one-off Test will be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground from March 11 to 15.
