Here is the updated standings for WTC 2023-25 ​​after England’s big win over Pakistan in the first test.

In England‘s emphatic victory over Pakistan in the first Test in a series of three games they not only strengthened their place in World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 stand but also show their growing dominance in Test cricket. The comprehensive victory by an innings and 47 runs shows the formidable form of England as they continue their push for a place in the WTC final.

England’s victory strengthens their World Test Championship campaign

It’s top quality batting and bowling, a top class England batsman Joe Root led the charge with an incredible double century, while Harry Brook scored a triple century, a rare feat in test cricket. England’s bowlers are equally prominent, with the left-arm spinner Jack Leach taking seven wickets in both innings, dismantled Pakistan’s batting line-up.

This performance pushed England to fourth place in the WTC standings, with 93 points. Having played 17 games in this tournament, England has won 9 games, lost 7 games, and played one draw. With five matches remaining in their campaign, England face a must-win situation to strengthen their chances of a place in the WTC finals.

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The struggles of Pakistan continue

For Pakistan, the loss was the latest in their WTC journey. This defeat leaves them at the bottom of WTC with only 16 points. In their 8 matches, Pakistan have won just two while losing six, making their chances of qualifying for the WTC finals almost impossible. The team’s consistency in the longest format of the game has been a growing concern, and this heavy defeat reveals gaps in its performance.

Race to WTC Final: India, Australia and Sri Lanka in contention

While England remain in the hunt, the Indian cricket team continues to dominate the WTC, sitting comfortably at the top with 98 points. India has played 11 matches, won eight and lost just two, drawing one. Their upcoming matches, which include a series of three highly anticipated test matches New Zealand as well as Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australiait will be important. India will need to win at least three of their next eight matches to book a place in the WTC finals.

Australiacurrently in second place with 90 points from 12 games, it also remains a strong contender. With eight wins under their belt and three defeats and one draw, they will be aiming to overtake India during the BGT series, which is expected to be a key fixture in the WTC race.

Sri Lankain third place with 60 points, also still in contention. They have won five of their nine games and will need to continue their winning form to challenge the top teams in the standings. Their ability to stay competitive in the remaining games will determine whether they can stay in the hunt for a place in the finals.

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