India Slips to Second in WTC Standings After Series Loss to New Zealand

India has slipped to the second position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings after suffering a 0-3 series whitewash against New Zealand at home

India has slipped to the second position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings after suffering a 0-3 series whitewash against New Zealand at home. This historic loss was sealed with a 25-run defeat in the third Test in Mumbai, marking the first time India has faced a whitewash at home in over two decades since South Africa’s 2-0 victory in the 1999-2000 series. The loss has dealt a severe blow to India’s WTC points percentage (PCT), which dropped from 62.82% to 58.33%, pushing them down to second place behind Australia, who now hold the top spot with a PCT of 62.50%. This setback means India must now win at least four of their remaining five matches in the current WTC cycle if they are to qualify for the final without depending on other results.

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia has, therefore, become crucial, as both teams are vying for one of the top two spots. Australia’s position is comparatively stronger, as they need to win just four of their remaining seven Tests to ensure a WTC final spot. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s series sweep in India has significantly boosted their WTC aspirations, moving them up to fourth place with a PCT of 54.55. Sri Lanka currently sits third with a PCT of 55.56, while South Africa remains in contention for a top-two finish in fifth place with a PCT of 54.17. As the WTC race tightens, India faces an uphill battle to secure a place in the final and a potential showdown for the championship title at Lord’s next year.