Australia Reclaims Top Spot in WTC Standings
Australia has reclaimed the No. 1 position in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 points table after a commanding 10-wicket victory over India in the second Test at Adelaide Oval. With this win, Australia now holds a 60.71% win percentage, reestablishing their dominance in the WTC race.
The match concluded in just under three days, showcasing Australia’s all-round superiority. After taking a crucial 157-run lead in the first innings, Australia bowled out India for a modest 175 in their second innings. The Kangaroos comfortably chased down the 19-run target in a mere 3.2 overs without losing a wicket.
India Drops to Third Position
India’s defeat marks their second consecutive loss in a pink-ball Test in Adelaide, causing them to slip to third place in the WTC standings with a 57.29% win percentage. This leaves the team with significant work to stay in contention for the WTC final.
South Africa and England Make Moves
South Africa, currently playing against Sri Lanka in Gqeberha, has moved to the second spot with a 59.26% win percentage. Should they win their ongoing Test, they could challenge Australia’s position at the top.
Meanwhile, England, fresh off a resounding 323-run victory over New Zealand in Wellington, sits in fifth place with a 45.24% win percentage.
New Zealand, the defending WTC champions, have dropped to sixth following their defeat to England.
More Teams in the WTC Rankings
- Pakistan: Currently ranked seventh with a 33.33% win percentage.
- Bangladesh: Eighth, holding 31.25% from 12 matches.
- West Indies: Ninth, with a 24.24% win percentage from 11 matches.
Star Performances in Australia’s Win
Australia’s victory was spearheaded by their bowlers, with Mitchell Starc taking a remarkable six-wicket haul, and skipper Pat Cummins claiming five wickets. Starc’s early dismissal of Rishabh Pant on Day 3 set the tone for India’s collapse.
Despite a spirited 50 from Nitish Rana, India’s resistance crumbled, paving the way for Australia’s dominant win.
Player of the Match: Travis Head
Travis Head earned the Player of the Match award for his brilliant 140-run innings in Australia’s first innings, laying the foundation for their success.