WTC Points Table: England Near Sri Lanka And New Zealand After Clinical Win In 1st Test

England thrashed New Zealand in 1st Test [Source: @englandcricket/X]

England had an outstanding start to the Test series against New Zealand, securing a comfortable eight-wicket victory in the first match at Hagley Oval in Christchurch. Led by Ben Stokes, the Englishmen showcased remarkable skill and resilience to stun the Blackcaps in their backyard. 

Brydon Carse's sensational six-wicket haul helped England restrict New Zealand to a sub-par 254-run total in their second innings. Chasing 104, the visitors cruised to victory, with Jacob Bethell and Joe Root playing blistering knocks. 

Updated WTC Points Table After England's Win In 1st Test vs New Zealand

Even after swatting aside New Zealand by eight wickets in the first Test, England couldn't improve their rank in the WTC standings. However, they certainly evolved their PCT, which currently reads 43.75. They are placed sixth in the points table with the help of ten victories in 20 matches. 

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On the other hand, New Zealand have also maintained their fourth position, winning six out of twelve matches in this WTC cycle. However, their PCT has dropped to 50, equalling the tally of Sri Lanka. 

India Maintain Top Spot Followed By South Africa And Australia

Meanwhile, the actual race for the WTC final is heating up, with India, South Africa and Australia having minor differences in their respective PCTs. While India occupy the first position, South Africa closely follow them with a PCT of 59.26. So, the remainder of the India Tests holds significant importance for Australia, as Pat Cummins and co are lagging behind the top two sides by a fair margin. 

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