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South Africa secured a 40-run victory against West Indies in a fiercely contested second Test in Guyana, marking a 1-0 series win. The opening Test had ended in a rain-affected draw, making this win even more significant for the Proteas. With this result, South Africa climbed to the fifth spot in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 standings, while West Indies remained anchored at the bottom.
WI vs SA: A gritty contest dominated by bowlers
The second Test saw an intense battle between the two sides. South Africa, batting first, were bundled out for 160, courtesy of a brilliant five-wicket haul by Shamar Joseph. In response, West Indies struggled to 144/10, with Jason Holder’s resilient 54* being the lone bright spot in their innings. In their second innings, South Africa posted a more competitive 246/10, thanks to crucial fifties from Aiden Markram and Kyle Verreynne. This set West Indies a challenging target of 263 runs. However, they could only manage 222/10, falling short by 40 runs. South Africa’s victory was sealed as their bowlers consistently applied pressure, ultimately securing a hard-fought win.
Impact on WTC 2023-25 standings
This victory was pivotal for South Africa in the context of the ICC World Test Championship. Entering the match, the Proteas were languishing in the seventh position on the WTC table. The win propelled them to the fifth spot, significantly boosting their chances in the ongoing WTC cycle. South Africa now has 28 points with a PCT (percentage of points) of 38.89%, having recorded two wins, three losses, and one draw from six matches. This rise in the standings reflects their potential to remain competitive in the WTC race.
On the other hand, the West Indies’ woes continued as they remain rooted to the ninth and last position in the WTC standings. With just 20 points and a PCT of 18.52%, the Caribbean side has had a dismal WTC campaign, recording only one win, two draws, and six losses. This performance underscores the significant rebuilding work needed for the West Indies to regain their former glory in Test cricket.
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Top of the Table: Leads the WTC standings with dominant performances
India continues to set the benchmark in the WTC standings, sitting comfortably at the top with a PCT of 68.51%. Their dominance has been evident, particularly in their comprehensive 4-1 home series victory against England earlier this year. India has won six out of their nine matches in the current WTC cycle, with only two losses and one draw. This commanding performance has kept them ahead of their rivals, showcasing their strength across different conditions and against various oppositions.
Australia, another formidable force in Test cricket, retains the second spot in the WTC standings with a PCT of 62.50%. The Aussies have been consistent, securing eight wins, three losses, and a draw, maintaining their position as serious contenders for the WTC final. New Zealand, the inaugural WTC champions, are currently in the third position with a PCT of 50%. The Blackcaps have been steady, winning three and losing three matches, as they look to defend their title in the current cycle.
Sri Lanka and Pakistan in close pursuit of top spots
Sri Lanka have made significant strides in the WTC standings, currently occupying the fourth spot with a PCT of 50%. Their recent 2-0 series victory over Bangladesh earlier this year was crucial in elevating their position. The Lankans have registered two wins and two losses, showing their ability to compete effectively in the Test arena. This rise in the standings has pushed Pakistan down to the sixth position. Pakistan, with a PCT of 36.66%, has had a mixed campaign with two wins and three losses. Their inconsistency has cost them valuable points, but they remain within striking distance of the top four.
England and Bangladesh: Mid-table struggles
Bangladesh finds themselves in the eighth position on the WTC points table, with a PCT of 25%. Despite their struggles, including three losses and only one win, the team has shown flashes of potential. Nevertheless, they will need to find greater consistency to climb higher in the standings. England, who were riding high after a 3-0 home series win against the West Indies last month, have slipped to the seventh position. With a PCT of 36.54%, England has six wins, six losses, and one draw to their name. Their fluctuating form has seen them fall behind in the WTC race, and they will need to regroup to challenge for a top-four finish.
Understanding the World Test Championship points system
The ICC World Test Championship standings are determined by the percentage of points earned (PCT), which ensures that teams are ranked based on their performances relative to the matches they have played. Each win in the WTC earns a team 12 points, while a draw gives each side four points. In the rare event of a tie, teams are awarded six points each. While a loss results in no points, teams can also lose points due to slow over-rates, adding another layer of strategy and discipline to the competition. This system rewards consistent performance and ensures that every match and every point matters in the race to the WTC final.
