South Africa win - (Source: AFP)
On Sunday, November 16, South Africa scripted history as the Temba Bavuma-led side beat India in the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, to lead the two-match series 1-0. It was a low-scoring thriller that spanned over three days, and the Proteas managed to defend 124 runs to script history. Further, Temba Bavuma extended his winning streak and is yet to lose a match as captain in Test cricket.
Also, the win marked South Africa's second win in the new World Test Championship cycle. Meanwhile, this article will shed light on the updated WTC standings following India's defeat and the Proteas' win.
South Africa enter the finals race; India drops to No. 4
With the win, South Africa, who are the WTC defending champions, have finally entered the top two and are placed second on the table with two wins and a defeat in three games. The Proteas have a point percentage of 66.67 and are only behind Australia, who are ranked 1st with 100% PCT.
Meanwhile, India have not got off to the best possible start in the new cycle as the Shubman Gill-led side have dropped a spot to now rank fourth with four wins and three defeats. India have a 54.17 PCT and are placed just a spot above Pakistan, which isn't far behind the arch-rivals with a 54 PCT.
Here is the updated WTC standings
WTC standings - (Source: ICC)
New Zealand are the only team yet to open their account in the new WTC cycle, while West Indies is the only side to have no points despite playing five Tests in the 2025-27 WTC cycle. Meanwhile, Australia and Sri Lanka continue to dominate the new cycle with no defeats so far.
Notably, India and South Africa will lock horns for the 2nd Test at the Barsapara Stadium on Saturday, November 22.
