Australia Claims Top Spot in WTC 2023-25 Points Table with Commanding Win Over Pakistan
Australia’s emphatic eight-wicket win against Pakistan at the Sydney Cricket Ground has propelled them to the summit of the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points table. With 56.25% points accumulated from eight Tests, Australia now stands as the frontrunner in the current edition of the prestigious championship.
India’s Brief Stint at the Top
India briefly held the top position after their compelling seven-wicket victory over South Africa in Cape Town. However, their stay at the summit was short-lived, and they currently occupy the second spot with 54.16% points from four Tests. The recent Tests involving India, South Africa, Pakistan, and Australia have led to significant shifts in the WTC points table. South Africa’s dominant performance in Centurion propelled them upwards, but they now share the joint-third spot with New Zealand and Bangladesh, each team accumulating 50% points from their respective two games.
Australia’s journey to the top was marked by resilience and determination. The Tests against Pakistan in Melbourne and Sydney witnessed ebbs and flows, but the home team displayed unwavering nerve. Overcoming a scare in Melbourne, where Pakistan chased 317 in the fourth innings, Australia emerged victorious by 79 runs. The farewell Test for David Warner in Sydney was another triumph for the hosts.
Upcoming Tests to Shape Standings
As the current World Test Champions, Australia has an opportunity to consolidate their position further in the upcoming series against West Indies, featuring two Tests. Meanwhile, India, positioned as runners-up, is gearing up for a five-Test home series against England, commencing on January 25 in Hyderabad. The bottom three positions in the WTC points table are occupied by West Indies (16.67%), England (15%), and Sri Lanka (0%). England, despite registering two wins, two losses, and one draw in the Ashes, faces a 19-point penalty for slow over-rate, impacting their overall points tally.
Australia’s upcoming series against West Indies, starting later this month, presents an opportunity to extend their lead. India, on the other hand, will face England in a five-Test home series. South Africa’s next challenge involves a two-match Test series in New Zealand in February, although they have opted for a second-string squad for this assignment.
