NZ-England series isn't part of World Test Championship: Here's why
The first Test match between New Zealand and England got over on Monday with the hosts sealing a crucial victory. New Zealand thrashed England by an innings and 46 runs to gain a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. However, not many know that the series isn't part of the ongoing ICC World Test Championship. Here's the reason.
Why this series isn't a part of the Test Championship
The format of the World Test Championship mandates that each country would play six series under the system, with three of those being played at home while the other three being played away. As per the schedule of England in the Championship, the side would have played an away series more, which would have left the rest of the scheduling awry.
Test Championship: New Zealand-England series will not have any bearing
New Zealand's two-match Test series against Sri Lanka in August 2019 was part of the ICC World Test Championship. However, this series against England isn't part of the same. It was another Test and the result will have absolutely no bearing on the points table.
Indian captain calls for more balanced approach
This World Test Championship is flawed in many ways including its scheduling. Recently, Indian captain Virat Kohli also suggested a format to make the World Test Championship more even. "A more balanced format would be one series home, one away. We are playing very good cricket but we have played only two Tests away," said Kohli after India's win against Bangladesh.
What happened in the first Test between NZ and England?
Winning the toss, England elected to bat first, as they were bundled out for 353, courtesy Tim Southee's 4/88. As for New Zealand, they posted a humongous total of 615, following Watling's 205, along with Santner's 126. As the hosts led by 262, England were bowled out for a paltry 197, as Neil Wagner's 5/44 destroyed the batting order of the visitors.
