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In a commanding performance, England secured a decisive 10-wicket victory against the West Indies in the third Test match at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Sunday, July 28. Mark Wood delivered an outstanding performance, taking a brilliant five-wicket haul in his 14-over spell and conceding just 40 runs at an economy rate of 2.90. Gus Atkinson was a standout throughout the series, claiming 22 wickets at an average of 16.22 and an economy rate of 4.01, earning him the Player of the Series title alongside Jayden Seales. Seales, the 22-year-old fast bowler, made a significant impact by taking 13 wickets over the three matches.
This victory not only whitewashed the West Indies but also significantly improved their standing in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 rankings.
England’s rise in WTC rankings following the series win against West Indies
Before the beginning of the West Indies tour of England 2024, the hosts were languishing in ninth place on the WTC table. However, their clinical performance against the Caribbean team has propelled them up three spots to sixth place, with 36.54 percentage points. This substantial jump in the standings underscores the importance of their emphatic win and the West Indies’ lacklustre performance.
West Indies drop to ninth position
Conversely, the West Indies, who entered the series in sixth place, have faced a significant setback. Their bowlers’ struggles were evident throughout the series, particularly in the third Test. This series of poor performances has resulted in a three-place drop for the Caribbean team, who now find themselves in ninth position with 19.05 percentage points.
Also READ: Mark Wood, Ben Stokes propel England to a 3-0 series sweep with dominant 10-wicket win against West Indies at Edgbaston
India’s supremacy and forthcoming challenges in the WTC
India continues to dominate the WTC standings, sitting comfortably at the top with 74 points and a winning percentage of 68.52%. Having played nine matches, India have secured victories in six, reinforcing their consistent performance and strong position as they aim for a spot in the WTC final in June 2025. Despite being finalists in both previous editions, India narrowly missed out on the title.
India’s cricketing calendar is packed with crucial Test matches as they gear up to solidify their lead. They are set to play 10 Tests, beginning with a two-match series against Bangladesh in September 2024. This will be followed by a three-match series against New Zealand in October 2024. The highlight of India’s schedule is a highly anticipated five-match series against former WTC champions Australia, spanning from November 2024 to January 2025.
Intensifying battle for second spot in the WTC points table
The competition for a place in the World Test Championship final is heating up, with Australia and New Zealand in a close contest for the second spot behind India. Sri Lanka are also in contention, making the race even more thrilling as the tournament progresses.
Australia (2nd, Win %: 68.52): The Australians have been in impressive form, securing four wins in their last five matches. They aim to keep this momentum and challenge India for the top position.
New Zealand (3rd, Win %: 50.00): The Black Caps have a balanced record with three wins and three losses in their last six matches. Their upcoming performance against India will be crucial in determining their final standing.
Sri Lanka (4th, Win %: 50.00): Sri Lanka have shown promise with two wins in their last four matches. They need to continue their winning streak to move up the table.
