ICC World Test Championship: Table, points and qualification scenarios
England were terrific in the just concluded first Test match against India, winning by 227 runs. The visitors slammed several top-notch records as a side and are unbeaten in eight games. For India, they were below-par for most parts of the Chepauk Test. With England taking a 1-0 lead, the ICC World Test Championship got more interesting. Here are all the major details.
England go top of the World Test Championship table
The England cricket team has gone on top of the ICC World Test Championship table after a victory against India. The Three Lions have raced to 442 points and have a PCT of 70.2%. The PCT has helped them to go ahead of second-placed New Zealand, who have already qualified for the WTC final (70%). This was England's 11th Test win in the WTC.
England go top of the standings
India drop down to fourth in the WTC table
India had climbed to the number one spot in the WTC table after beating Australia in the fourth Test in January. The win helped India clinch the series 2-1. India were leading the table with 71.7%. However, a heavy defeat in the Chennai Test sees India drop down to fourth. They now have a PCT of 68.3% and trail Australia on third (69.2%).
How India can qualify for the ICC WTC final?
India will need to bounce back from the defeat. The second Test is also in Chennai and one needs to see India make the right decisions. The scenario for India to qualify for the WTC finale is that they they need to win the series by a 2-1 or 3-1 margin respectively. Virat Kohli's men cannot afford to lose another Test match.
How can England qualify for the ICC WTC finale?
The win will serve a lot of confidence for England, who recently beat Sri Lanka and won their previous two Test series at home. England can qualify for the WTC finale if they win the ongoing series by a margin of 3-0, 3-1, and 4-0.
How can Australia seal qualification?
Cricket Australia's decision to postpone the Test series against South Africa handed New Zealand an entry in the WTC final. However, Australia aren't out of the race. If England beat India by a margin of 1-0, 2-0 or 2-1, then Australia get the advantage. Also, if the series ends 1-1 or 2-2, Australia will qualify at India and England's expense.
