Why Test Cricket Is Making a Comeback in 2025

Test cricket, often called the pinnacle of the sport, has faced challenges in recent years with the rise of T20 leagues and ODI tournaments. However, in 2025, Test cricket is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, captivating fans and players alike.
From thrilling series in the World Test Championship (WTC) to innovative strategies like England’s Bazball, the format is proving its enduring appeal. This article explores the top five reasons behind Test cricket’s comeback in 2025, highlighting why the longest format is reclaiming its place in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide.
1. World Test Championship Fuels Competitive Spirit
The World Test Championship (WTC), introduced by the ICC in 2019, has revitalized Test cricket by adding context to bilateral series. In 2025, the WTC 2023-25 cycle reaches its climax, with Australia, India, England, and South Africa vying for a spot in the WTC final scheduled for June 2025 at Lord’s. Australia leads the standings after a 2-0 win over India in December 2024, while India’s 4-1 triumph in England in 2024 keeps them in contention.
The WTC has made every Test match matter, as points determine qualification, encouraging teams to play aggressively. For instance, New Zealand’s stunning 3-0 whitewash of India in November 2024 reshaped the WTC table, drawing millions of viewers. The WTC’s structure, combined with high-stakes matches, is a key driver of Test cricket’s comeback in 2025, making it a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts.
2. Bazball Redefines Test Cricket’s Entertainment Value
England’s Bazball strategy, led by coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes, has injected excitement into Test cricket, proving the format can rival T20’s thrill. Since 2022, England has maintained a run rate of 4.85 per over, the highest in Test history, with aggressive tactics like early declarations and attacking fields.
In 2025, Bazball faces its ultimate test in the Ashes, starting November 21, 2025, in Perth, where England aims to reclaim the urn from Australia. The 2023 Ashes, a 2-2 draw, drew 2.1 million viewers for Edgbaston’s final day, showcasing Bazball’s ability to captivate audiences.
Despite setbacks, like a 4-1 loss in India in 2024, Bazball’s fearless approach has inspired teams like New Zealand and South Africa to adopt bolder strategies, making Test matches more dynamic and contributing to the format’s resurgence in 2025.
3. Emerging Talent Shines in Test Cricket
2025 has seen a new generation of cricketers embrace Test cricket, breathing fresh life into the format. India’s Yashasvi Jaiswal, with 1,400 runs at an average of 58 in 2024, has dazzled with centuries against England and Australia. England’s Harry Brook, known for his aggressive batting, scored a match-defining 123 in Pakistan in October 2024, while Australia’s Cameron Green anchors their middle order.
Pakistan’s spinners Abrar Ahmed and Sajid Khan dominated England in Rawalpindi, taking 15 wickets in a Test in October 2024, showcasing the format’s demand for skill.
South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, with 350 Test wickets by mid-2025, continues to thrill with his pace. These young stars, drawn to Test cricket’s prestige, are attracting younger audiences, fueling the format’s comeback as fans flock to see their heroics on platforms like ESPNcricinfo and Cricbuzz.
4. Spin-Friendly Pitches and Bowling Variety Add Drama
Test cricket in 2025 has been enriched by spin-friendly pitches and diverse bowling attacks, creating compelling contests. Pakistan’s spin-heavy tracks in Multan and Rawalpindi saw Abrar Ahmed, Sajid Khan, and Noman Ali take 70% of wickets in their 2024 series against England, leading to decisive results.
India’s Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja exploited turning tracks to secure a 4-1 win over England in 2024, while Australia’s Nathan Lyon remains a threat ahead of the Ashes. Pace bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Pat Cummins, and Kagiso Rabada complement spinners, ensuring variety.
The WTC’s diverse conditions, from seaming pitches in England to dustbowls in India, test players’ adaptability, making Test cricket unpredictable and exciting. This balance of spin and pace, as seen in 2025’s thrilling Tests, is a major reason for the format’s resurgence.
5. Fan Engagement and Global Investment in Test Cricket
Test cricket’s comeback in 2025 is bolstered by increased fan engagement and financial investment. The ICC’s efforts to promote the WTC have boosted viewership, with India’s 3-0 loss to New Zealand in 2024 trending globally on X, reflecting heightened interest. England’s Bazball has drawn record crowds, with Lord’s selling out for the WTC final in June 2025.
Australia’s Big Bash League coexists with Tests, ensuring packed stadiums for the Ashes, while India’s BCCI incentivizes players with Test match fees of INR 15 lakh, encouraging stars like Virat Kohli to prioritize the format. South Africa’s hosting of New Zealand in February 2025, despite domestic T20 clashes, signals commitment to Test cricket. Digital platforms like Star Sports and Willow TV offer live streaming, making Test matches accessible globally, driving the format’s popularity in 2025.
Why Test Cricket’s Comeback Matters
Test cricket’s resurgence in 2025 underscores its unique appeal: a format that tests skill, endurance, and strategy over five days. Unlike T20 or ODI, Test cricket allows narratives to unfold, from Joe Root’s redemption arc to Pakistan’s spin revolution. The WTC adds stakes, while Bazball and emerging talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal make it entertaining.
Spin-friendly pitches and diverse bowling ensure competitive matches, and fan engagement reflects the format’s global reach. Posts on X in June 2025 praise Test cricket’s depth, with fans calling it “cricket’s true soul,” countering earlier concerns about its decline.
Challenges to Sustain the Comeback
Despite the resurgence, Test cricket faces challenges. Smaller nations like West Indies and Sri Lanka struggle financially, with fewer Tests scheduled in 2025. T20 leagues like the IPL and PSL compete for talent, though players like Kane Williamson reaffirm their love for Tests.
The ICC must ensure equitable scheduling and funding, as highlighted by Wasim Akram in a 2025 interview, to maintain momentum. Expanding Test cricket to associate nations, as seen with Afghanistan’s progress, could broaden its appeal.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
Test cricket’s comeback sets the stage for an exciting future. The WTC 2025-27 cycle begins with India touring Australia in December 2025, followed by England’s Ashes campaign. South Africa’s planned Tests against Pakistan in 2026 promise spin-pace battles, while New Zealand’s young squad aims to build on their 2024 success.
Innovations like day-night Tests, as seen in Adelaide during the Ashes, enhance accessibility. The ICC’s commitment to a Test fund, proposed in 2025, aims to support struggling boards, ensuring the format’s longevity.
Conclusion
Test cricket is making a comeback in 2025, driven by the World Test Championship, Bazball’s excitement, emerging talent, spin-friendly pitches, and robust fan engagement. From Australia’s WTC dominance to Pakistan’s spin revolution, the format has delivered unforgettable moments.
As England prepares for the Ashes and India eyes WTC glory, Test cricket proves its timeless appeal. For live scores, schedules, and Test cricket news, visit BBC Sport or Cricbuzz. With 2025 marking a turning point, Test cricket is not just surviving—it’s thriving, ready to inspire cricket fans for generations to come.