WTC Points Table Update: India Slips to Third After Crushing Loss to Australia
The World Test Championship (WTC) points table witnessed a dramatic shake-up after Team India’s defeat to Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024. With a stunning 10-wicket victory, Australia leveled the five-match series 1-1 and reclaimed the top spot in the WTC standings.
Australia’s Dominance in the Second Test
In the pink-ball Test match, Australia outclassed India on all fronts. India posted a modest 180 runs in their first innings and 175 in the second innings. In contrast, Australia scored a commanding 337 runs in their first innings, securing a significant lead. Needing just 19 runs for victory, the Australian openers completed the task with ease on the third day.
Impact on WTC Points Table
Australia’s win has propelled them to the top position in the WTC standings with a win percentage of 60.71%. The team has played 14 matches in this WTC cycle, winning 9 and losing 4.
Meanwhile, India has dropped to the third position with a win percentage of 57.29% after 16 matches, where they won 9 and lost 6. South Africa now occupies the second spot with a win percentage of 59.25%, narrowly edging out India.
Road to the WTC Final
The final of the World Test Championship will be held at Lord’s in June 2024. With three Test matches remaining in the series, India still has a chance to climb back into the top two spots and secure a place in the final. However, the margin for error is now razor-thin.
India’s Batting Woes Continue
India’s defeat can largely be attributed to their underwhelming batting performance. Despite notable efforts from young batter Nitish Reddy, who scored 42 runs in both innings, the rest of the lineup failed to deliver against Australia’s disciplined bowling attack.
Australia’s bowlers, led by Mitchell Starc (6 wickets in the first innings) and Pat Cummins (5 wickets in the second innings), were relentless. Travis Head, with his match-winning century in the first innings, was named Player of the Match.
WTC Points Table – Top 3 Teams:
- Australia: 14 matches, 9 wins, 4 losses, 1 draw, 60.71%
- South Africa: 9 matches, 5 wins, 3 losses, 1 draw, 59.25%
- India: 16 matches, 9 wins, 6 losses, 1 draw, 57.29%
