Mumbai: The World Test Championship (WTC) is approaching a crucial phase with India currently leading the standings, holding a robust 68.52% of possible points. Australia follows closely, aiming to snatch the title, having secured 62.50% of possible points.
According to International Cricket Council, India’s success in the championship has been highlighted by a significant win against England and consistent performances in away series. They have a series of matches lined up at home against Bangladesh and New Zealand, followed by a challenging five-Test series in Australia. This series could potentially decide the finalists for the WTC25 Final at Lord’s.
Australia, the reigning champions, began their campaign with a strong performance against England and continued their dominance at home against Pakistan and the West Indies, although they experienced a setback in the second Test against the latter. The upcoming series against India not only offers a chance to reclaim the Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also to solidify their position in the top two.
New Zealand, ranked third with 50% of possible points, faces tough series ahead in Sri Lanka and India, followed by a home series against England, posing significant challenges but also opportunities to climb the rankings.
Bangladesh has shown remarkable improvement, positioned fourth with 45.83% of possible points after a historic series win against Pakistan. They are in contention for a final spot, which will depend heavily on their upcoming series against South Africa and the West Indies.
England and South Africa are also in contention but need strong performances in their remaining matches to make a significant impact in the standings. England, particularly, faces an uphill battle with all their remaining matches away from home.
The standings are tightly contested, and the outcomes of the upcoming series, especially the high-stakes encounters between top-ranked teams, will be pivotal in determining the finalists for the next World Test Championship.