The ICC World Test Championship standings saw a dramatic shift as the two-time finalists, New Zealand, slipped from the top spot to No. 2 following their defeat to Australia in Wellington. India, on the other hand, ascended to the pole position, replacing New Zealand as the new leader of the WTC standings.
| Rank | TEAM | MATCHES | WON | LOSS | DRAW | POINTS ACHIEVED | PCT (%) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | India | 8 | 5 | 2 | 1 | 62 | 64.58 |
| 2. | New Zealand | 5 | 3 | 2 | - | 36 | 60 |
| 3. | Australia | 11 | 7 | 3 | 1 | 78 | 59.09 |
| 4. | Bangladesh | 2 | 1 | 1 | - | 12 | 50 |
| 5. | Pakistan | 5 | 2 | 3 | - | 22 | 36.66 |
| 6. | West Indies | 4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 16 | 33.33 |
| 7. | South Africa | 4 | 1 | 3 | - | 12 | 25 |
| 8. | England | 9 | 3 | 5 | 1 | 21 | 19.44 |
| 9. | Sri Lanka | 2 | - | 2 | - | - | - |
New Zealand's Slip to No. 2
New Zealand's reign at the top was short-lived as their loss to Australia saw them plummet to the second position. Before the Wellington Test, the Kiwis held a commanding lead with 36 points from four matches and a solid points percentage of 75. However, their crushing 172-run defeat proved costly, knocking them down to No. 2 with a points percentage of 60.
India's Rise to No. 1
Stepping into the void left by New Zealand's stumble, India surged to the pole position. With 62 points in 8 matches, India's ascent was propelled by a formidable points percentage of 64.58. Their consistent performance throughout the championship has finally paid off, placing them at the forefront of the race for Test cricket supremacy.
🔝 India move to No.1
⤵️ New Zealand slip to No.2
💪 Australia strengthen their position
The latest changes in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 standings 👉 https://t.co/ywb1uuBZ0K#WTC25 | #NZvAUS pic.twitter.com/NhtqrjNLcv— ICC (@ICC) March 3, 2024
Australia's Strong Performance
Meanwhile, Australia's victory over New Zealand further solidified their position at No. 3. Led by stellar performances, particularly Nathan Lyon's sensational six-wicket haul in the fourth innings, the Aussies gained 12 crucial points, elevating their tally to 78. With an improved points percentage of 59.09, Australia sees an opportunity to leapfrog New Zealand and potentially challenge India's newfound dominance.
Upcoming Matches and Implications
As the championship unfolds, all eyes are on the upcoming fixtures that could potentially reshape the standings once again. Australia's clash with New Zealand in the second Test presents an opportunity for both teams to jostle for position. A victory for Australia could catapult them to the second spot, while New Zealand seeks redemption to reclaim their former glory.
Nathan Lyon starred with a match-winning six-wicket haul in Australia's massive win in Wellington 💪#WTC25 | #NZvAUS 📝: https://t.co/ZR2nZf4LSN pic.twitter.com/uVYZFnTcBT— ICC (@ICC) March 3, 2024
For India, the challenge lies in maintaining their hard-earned lead. The fifth and final Test against England in Dharamsala looms large, with India needing a strong performance to fend off any threats to their top spot. A victory would solidify their position, but a draw or loss opens the door for Australia and New Zealand to mount a challenge.
The ICC World Test Championship continues to be a riveting battle of skill and determination. With the top rankings in flux, every match becomes crucial in shaping the destiny of the championship. As the teams gear up for the remaining fixtures, anticipation runs high as cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the crowning of the ultimate Test cricket champion.
(With inputs from ABP News)
(Image source: X/ICC)
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