Lord's set to lose $4 million as India miss out on WTC 2025 final, ticket prices slashed

The high-stakes clash in the final of the 2025 ICC World Test Championship (WTC) is set to take place in London at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground from June 11-15. Australia, the defending champions, will face table-toppers South Africa in what promises to be a fierce battle for the precious title. This marks the very first time that the WTC final will be played at Lord’s, but the venue is set to acquire a huge financial trouble, reportedly close to £4 million, due to India's failure to qualify for the final battle.  

According to The Times, "Organisers had originally priced tickets at a premium rate, believing India fan demand would outstrip supply, but the absence of India has significantly curtailed the financial windfall expected by Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), underscoring the financial influence of Indian cricket across the global game." 

Led by Rohit Sharma, India, the favorites to reach their third consecutive WTC final, went through a terrible defeat in the final stages of the tournament. A whitewashed 0-3 series loss against New Zealand at home, followed by a 1-3 loss to Australia in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, led them to end their campaign.

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Expecting India to qualify and participate in the finals, Lord’s had initially set ticket prices at a premium cost, certain that demand from Indian cricket fans would exceed the availability and would be a major audience. Nevertheless, once India’s absence was confirmed, the MCC opted to reduce the ticket prices to ensure a full and lively stadium rather than a somewhat populated one with overpriced seats. The Times reported, “The decision to be flexible with prices for the World Test Championship final was taken this year, with tickets now being sold at between £40 and £90, about £50 cheaper than they had originally been priced, accounting for the loss in revenue.” 

Following the WTC final, Lord’s will also host the third Test of the India-England series, scheduled from July 10-14.