India and Pakistan benefited after South Africa suffered a huge loss vs ENG in 2nd Test; Here's the Updated WTC 2021-23 table
The second test between England and South Africa saw an incredible performance from Ben Stokes and his team registered a dominating comeback to win by an innings and 85 runs to level the three-match series at 1-1. And it has made the series more interesting, with both teams winning one each.
This has changed the scene at the World Test Championship table 2021-23. And the equation at the top position has been changed. However, for the fans of India and Pakistan, it is good news and both teams have benefited from this South Africa's loss.
Dean Elgar and his team, who were at the top spot after an innings and 12 runs win in the first game, has slipped to the second place after the loss in the second game. South Africa were at the top with 75% points and Australia were at second with 70% points.
Now, Pat Cummins and his men are at the top while the Proteas are in second with 66.67. This has shortened the gap between India and Pakistan for the second spot. In the third, fourth, and fifth places, Sri Lanka, India, and Pakistan are having a close contest.
Sri Lanka ranks third with 53.33%, India ranks fourth with 52.08%, and Pakistan ranks fifth with 51.85%.The gap between South Africa and other teams, which was 23% before the second test, has come down to 14-15 % points.
South Africa lose top spot in the World Test Championship table #WTC pic.twitter.com/4jQUiiUjdq
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) August 27, 2022
Now if South Africa loses the third and final test as well, that could make a huge turnaround on the WTC table. However, Australia and South Africa are still favourites to play in the WTC final at Lord's next year. But the real equation depends on the four major upcoming test series.
These series are between Pakistan and New Zealand (2 tests) in Pakistan; India will tour Bangladesh for two tests; South Africa will travel to Australia for three tests; England will travel to Pakistan for three tests; and then the biggest series between India and Australia in India of four test matches.