Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History

Since its launch in 2019, the World Test Championship (WTC) has added drama and structure to Test cricket. While legends fought for glory, several debutants made instant, game-changing impacts. These rising stars didn’t just step in—they took charge, delivering defining performances that shaped matches and WTC campaigns. Here’s a look at the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History across the 2019–21, 2021–23, and ongoing 2023–25 cycles.

Let`s take a look at the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History:

5. Shamar Joseph (West Indies)

Among the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History, few stories rival the sheer drama of Shamar Joseph’s rise. From net bowler to national hero, Joseph burst onto the scene in January 2024 during the WTC 2023–25 cycle against defending champions Australia. He made an immediate impact—dismissing Steve Smith with his very first ball in Test cricket.

But it was the second Test in Brisbane that sealed his legacy. Despite a toe injury, Joseph’s stunning 7/68 powered West Indies to their first win in Australia since 1997. His fearless pace and iconic celebration earned him Player of the Series and a permanent place in WTC history.

Shamar Joseph – WTC 2023–25 (First 2 Tests)

Matches	Innings	Wickets	Best Bowling	Bowling Average	5W Hauls
2	4	13	7/68	17.30	2

4. Kyle Jamieson (New Zealand)

Among the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History, Kyle Jamieson stood tall—literally and figuratively. Debuting in 2020 against India, his bounce, swing, and lower-order runs made an instant impact. He was instrumental in New Zealand’s 2021 WTC triumph, taking 7 wickets in the final, including Virat Kohli twice, and earning Player of the Match honors.

Kyle Jamieson – WTC 2019–21 Stats

Matches	Innings (Bowl)	Wickets	Best Bowling	Bowling Average	5W Hauls	Runs (Bat)	Bat Avg
7	13	43	5/34	12.53	5	256	42.66

3. Kyle Mayers (West Indies)

Kyle Mayers’ fairytale debut earns him a spot among the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History. In February 2021, he stunned the cricket world with an unbeaten 210 in the fourth innings against Bangladesh, chasing down 395—one of the highest successful chases ever. On debut, in subcontinent conditions, with a depleted squad, Mayers delivered a knock for the ages, instantly reviving West Indies’ Test spirit.

Kyle Mayers – WTC 2019–21 Stats

Matches	Innings	Runs	HS	Average	50s	100s
10	16	521	210*	47.36	2	2

2. Abid Ali (Pakistan)

Abid Ali’s composed entry into Test cricket secures him a place among the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History. Debuting in the 2019–21 cycle, he became the first male cricketer to score centuries on debut in both ODIs and Tests. His 174 against Sri Lanka in Karachi highlighted his patience and classical technique, offering much-needed stability to Pakistan’s top order throughout the WTC cycle.

Abid Ali – WTC 2019–21 Stats

Matches	Innings	Runs	HS	Average	50s	100s
11	21	569	174	35.56	2	2

1. Shubman Gill (India)

Shubman Gill’s fearless debut earns him a well-deserved spot among the Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History. Introduced during the 2019–21 cycle, he faced the ultimate trial by fire—debuting in Australia. His defining moment came in the iconic Gabba Test, where he scored a brilliant 91 while chasing 328, helping India break Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the venue. Gill’s composure and elegant aggression signaled the arrival of a new-generation match-winner.

Shubman Gill – WTC 2019–21 Stats

Matches	Innings	Runs	HS	Average	50s	100s
8	14	414	91	31.84	3	0

Conclusion

The World Test Championship has revived Test cricket and spotlighted fresh talent under pressure. The Top 5 Game-Changing Debutants in WTC History—Shamar Joseph, Kyle Jamieson, Kyle Mayers, Abid Ali, and Shubman Gill—did more than debut; they changed games and rewrote narratives. Their impact proves how the WTC continues to inspire and redefine greatness through new heroes.

Read More: Top 3 World Test Championship Final Winners

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