Australia clinched a commanding victory against India by 184 runs in the fourth Test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, marking a significant shake-up in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 Points Table. The match, held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), witnessed stellar performances from both sides, but ultimately, Pat Cummins’ Australia emerged victorious. Here’s how this result impacts the current WTC standings and India’s road ahead.
The fourth Test between India and Australia brought electrifying action to the cricket field. While Australia set a daunting target of 340 for India, Rohit Sharma’s team faltered under pressure, managing only 155 runs in 79.1 overs. Despite the loss, India retains its third spot in the WTC Points Table, though its percentage (PCT%) took a hit. Australia, on the other hand, solidified its position as the second-ranked team with an improved PCT%.
So, what does this mean for the ongoing WTC 2023-25 cycle? Let’s dive into the details of the updated points table, team performances, and the scenarios that could shape the path to the WTC Final.
What is the World Test Championship (WTC)?
The World Test Championship (WTC) is a premier tournament introduced by the ICC to bring context and competition to Test cricket. Teams compete across multiple series, earning points for wins, losses, and draws. The top two teams in the WTC Points Table qualify for the final, a prestigious clash held at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.
The current WTC cycle spans from 2023 to 2025, and with each match, the race to the final intensifies.
Updated WTC 2023-25 Points Table After Australia Beat India by 184 Runs in 4th Test
Australia’s win over India not only showcased their dominance but also made significant changes to the WTC Points Table. Let’s break down the updated standings:
| Position | Team | Matches Played | Wins | Losses | Draws | Penalty Points | Points | PCT% |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 11 | 7 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 88 | 66.67 |
| 2 | Australia | 16 | 10 | 4 | 2 | 10 | 118 | 61.46 |
| 3 | India | 18 | 9 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 114 | 52.78 |
| 4 | New Zealand | 14 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 3 | 81 | 48.21 |
| 5 | Sri Lanka | 11 | 5 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 60 | 45.45 |
| 6 | England | 22 | 11 | 10 | 1 | 22 | 114 | 43.18 |
| 7 | Bangladesh | 12 | 4 | 8 | 0 | 3 | 45 | 31.25 |
| 8 | Pakistan | 11 | 4 | 7 | 0 | 8 | 40 | 30.30 |
| 9 | West Indies | 11 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 0 | 32 | 24.24 |
How Did India Perform in the 4th Test?
India’s batting lineup struggled to cope with the relentless Australian attack. Chasing a challenging target of 340, India crumbled under pressure. Stand-in skipper Rohit Sharma fought valiantly, but the team fell short, scoring just 155 runs in their second innings.
Despite the loss, India remains in the third position in the WTC Points Table. However, their PCT% dropped from 55.88% to 52.78%, making their path to the final more complicated.
Australia’s Resurgence in the WTC 2023-25 Points Table
Australia’s emphatic win boosted their PCT% to 61.46%, strengthening their hold on the second spot. With consistent performances, they are emerging as strong contenders for the WTC Final.
Australia’s upcoming matches against Sri Lanka could further solidify their position in the table.
South Africa’s Dominance at the Top
South Africa continues to lead the WTC 2023-25 Points Table, boasting a PCT% of 66.67. Their recent thrilling win against Pakistan confirmed their place in the WTC Final.
If they manage to win the second Test against Pakistan, they could finish this WTC cycle as table toppers.
What’s Next for India in the WTC 2023-25 Cycle?
India’s journey to the WTC Final now hinges on several factors:
- Winning the New Year Test against Australia in Sydney.
- Hoping for a Sri Lankan clean sweep against Australia.
If these scenarios play out, India could secure the second spot and book their place in the final.
Upcoming Fixtures That Could Change the WTC Points Table
The remaining matches in this WTC cycle are critical for all teams. Here are some key fixtures to watch:
- India vs Australia (Sydney Test) – January 3-7, 2025.
- Sri Lanka vs Australia – January-February 2025.
- South Africa vs Pakistan (Second Test) – January 3-7, 2025.
FAQs About the Updated WTC Points Table
1. What is the WTC Points Table?
The WTC Points Table tracks the performance of all teams in the World Test Championship, assigning points based on wins, losses, and draws.
2. How does the PCT% impact standings?
PCT% represents the percentage of points a team has earned out of the total points available. It’s the key factor in determining rankings.
3. Can India still qualify for the WTC Final?
Yes, India can still qualify if they win their remaining matches and other results favor them.
4. When is the WTC 2023-25 Final?
The WTC Final is scheduled to be held at Lord’s from June 11 to 15, 2025.
5. Which teams are leading the WTC Points Table?
South Africa currently leads, followed by Australia and India.
6. What happens if two teams have the same PCT%?
If two teams have the same PCT%, other factors like head-to-head records and penalty points are considered.
Conclusion
Australia’s victory over India in the fourth Test has added a thrilling twist to the ongoing WTC 2023-25 cycle. With South Africa booking their place in the final, the competition for the second spot is heating up.
India’s chances depend on their performance in Sydney and favorable outcomes in other matches. Stay tuned as the race to the WTC Final intensifies!
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