Test cricket thrives on slow-burning drama and defining moments—and in the WTC era, every session counts. From gritty resistance to game-changing spells, the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History have turned dead rubbers into thrillers and shaped teams’ paths to the final. Here are five that truly left a mark.
Let`s take a look at the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History:
5. South Africa Rattle India at Cape Town (WTC 2023–25)
Session: Opening Session, Day 1
Impact: India dismissed for 55, their lowest in South Africa
In one of the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History, South Africa—spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada—ripped through India’s batting in just 23 overs. That explosive opening set the tone for a crushing innings win and served as a bold statement in the 2023–25 WTC cycle, exposing India’s ongoing struggles in pace-friendly conditions.
4. Pakistan Collapses in Final Session vs Sri Lanka (Galle, WTC 2021–23)
Session: Final Session, Day 5
Impact: From a draw to a collapse that cost Pakistan key WTC points.
In one of the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History, Pakistan, cruising at 176/2 while chasing 267, collapsed spectacularly as Prabath Jayasuriya tore through their lineup in just 90 minutes. Sri Lanka snatched a dramatic victory, dealing a major blow to Pakistan’s WTC campaign and costing them crucial points in the race to the final.
3. Ben Stokes Turns the Lord’s Test (WTC 2023–25)
Session: Final Session, Day 5 vs Australia, Ashes 2023
Impact: Nearly engineered an impossible comeback in a WTC points-heavy clash.
In one of the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History, Ben Stokes unleashed a breathtaking 155 at Lord’s in 2023, nearly scripting another Headingley miracle. Chasing 371 with the lower order, his post-tea assault rattled Australia and reignited England’s hopes. Though England fell short, the session shifted momentum in the Ashes and WTC race—while Bairstow’s controversial stumping earlier that day stirred global debate on the spirit of the game.
2. Jamieson Destroys India in WTC Final 2021
Session: First Session, Day 3
Impact: Jamieson’s spell set the tone for New Zealand’s dominance.
In one of the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History, Kyle Jamieson’s fiery spell on the morning of Day 3 in the WTC Final 2021 turned the tide. With rain disrupting the first two days, Jamieson dismissed Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant, restricting India to 217. That collapse handed New Zealand a crucial advantage, one they held onto to become the first-ever World Test Champions.
1. India’s Final Day Fightback vs Australia at Gabba (WTC 2019–21)
Session: Final Session, Day 5
Impact: India chased 328 to break Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba.
In one of the Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History, India chased down over 100 runs on Day 5 at the Gabba with a young, fearless lineup. Rishabh Pant’s daring finish, backed by Shubman Gill’s counterattack and Washington Sundar’s crucial cameo, transformed a likely draw into a historic win. That final session sealed India’s spot in the WTC Final and redefined their legacy in away Tests.
Conclusion
Sessions win you Tests, and Tests win you Championships. The Most Impactful Sessions in WTC History have featured epic chases, game-changing spells, and dramatic turnarounds that shifted momentum and rewrote narratives. These unforgettable stretches remind us why Test cricket remains the most intense and layered format—where a few hours can change everything.
Read More: Top 5 Highest Team Scores in IPL Final
FAQ`s
Q1: What defines an “impactful session” in Test cricket?
A: An impactful session is one where the game’s momentum shifts dramatically—often through quick wickets, explosive batting, or tactical brilliance. In the WTC context, such sessions often have direct consequences on standings or qualification chances.
Q2. Why are sessions so crucial in the World Test Championship?
A: Every Test in the WTC carries points, and a single session can swing a match and, by extension, the WTC table. These key moments often determine who makes it to the final.
Q3: Which session tops the list of impactful moments in WTC history?
A: India’s final-day chase at the Gabba in 2021 is widely regarded as the most impactful session—it sealed a historic win and secured their spot in the WTC Final.