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India‘s position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings remains a focal point of discussion following their recent defeats against New Zealand. Despite losing the first two Tests of the series, India continues to hold the top spot in the WTC 2023-2025 points table, but the path to securing a place in the finals 📖is becoming increasꦿingly challenging.
Current WTC standings overview
As of now, India leads the WTC standings with a winning percentage (PCT) of 62.82%, having played 13 matches, winning 8, losing 4, and drawing 1. They have accumulated 98 points. Following India is Australia, with a PCT of 62.50% from 12 matches (8 wins and 3 losses), earning them 90 points. The competition is heating up as teams vie for the top two positions that will qualify them for the WTC final at Lord’s in June 2025.
In another significant development in the WTC, Pakistan secured a thrilling nine-wicket victory over England in the third Test in Rawalpindi. This win not only sealed the three-match series 2-1 for Pakistan but also propelled them one spot up to the seventh position with 33.33% in the WTC standings. Pakistan’s resurgence in Test cricket has been impressive, and they will be looking to continue their momentum in the upcoming matches.
The road ahead for competitors
Other teams are also making strides in the WTC standings. Sri Lanka holds third place with a PCT of 55.56%, while New Zealand’s recent victories have pushed them into contention, currently sitting at fourth with a PCT of 50.00%. South Africa and England are also closely trailing with 47.62% and 40.79%, respectively. Bangladesh and West Indies are struggling at the bottom of the table, with Bangladesh at 34.38% and West Indies languishing at 18.52% following a series of poor performances.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Mitchell Santner siz🍌zles as New Zealand wins 2nd Test to bag first-ever series triumph in India
Implications of recent losses
The recent back-to-back defeats against New Zealand have raised alarms for India, especially as they now need to secure victories in at least four of their remaining six matches to ensure qualification for the finals. This includes an upcoming three-match series against New Zealand and a five-match series in Australia. The pressure is mounting on Rohit Sharma’s side to perform consistently and avoid further slip-ups.
India’s embarrassing Pune Test loss
New Zealand setting a formidable target of 359 runs in the fourth innings, India’s hopes were briefly lifted by a spirited innings from opener Yashasvi Jaiswal. His aggressive knock of 77 runs showcased his potential and provided a glimmer of hope for the home side. However, the Indian batting lineup crumbled under pressure as wickets fell at regular intervals. The team’s inability to build on Jaiswal’s promising start ultimately led to their downfall, with only a few batters managing to reach double figures thereafter.
Mitchell Santner emerged as New Zealand’s star performer, taking an impressive total of 13 wickets across both innings. His six-wicket haul in the second innings proved crucial in dismantling India’s batting order and securing New Zealand’s historic series win in India. Santner’s exceptional bowling not only highlighted his skills but also underscored the challenges faced by Indian batters on a turning track.
New Zealand’s historic achievement
With this victory, New Zealand not only secured their first Test series win in India after a 69-year wait but also demonstrated their capability to perform well on subcontinent pitches. This achievement is significant for a team that has historically struggled in Indian conditions. Captain Tom Latham played a pivotal role in leading his side to success, showcasing ಞstrong leadership and tactical acumen throughout the match.
As the WTC cycle nears its conཧclusion, the competition for the top two spots is heating up. India, despite this setback, remains a strong contender, but they will need to address their batting inconsistencies 𝓡and bowling vulnerabilities to secure a place in the final. The upcoming matches will be crucial for India to regain their winning momentum and solidify their position at the top of the WTC table.
