Following a disheartening Test series loss in Pakistan, England had a lot to think about.
However, they are no longer concerned about the World Test Championship, as Ben Stokes’ team’s chances of making it to the final next summer were dashed by defeats in Rawalpindi and Multan.
Five sides are still in the running to qualify for Lord’s and compete for the title of World Test champions, though, with 20 Test matches left in the 2023–2025 cycle.
Holders Australia and India, who were eliminated finalists in the competition’s first two iterations, are still very much in the running.
BBC Sport has examined what each team needs to secure a top-two position and advance to the championship game.
World Test Championship standings
As of 28 October
The World Test Championship table as of 28 October: India (62.82%), Australia (62.50%), Sri Lanka (55.56%), New Zealand (50%), South Africa (47.62%), England (40.79%), Pakistan (33.33%), Bangladesh (30.56%), West Indies (18.52%).
|
Position |
Team |
Points |
% points earned |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 |
India |
98 |
62.82 |
|
2 |
Australia |
90 |
62.50 |
|
3 |
Sri Lanka |
60 |
55.56 |
|
4 |
New Zealand |
60 |
50.00 |
|
5 |
South Africa |
40 |
47.62 |
|
6 |
England |
93 |
40.79 |
|
7 |
Pakistan |
40 |
33.33 |
|
8 |
Bangladesh |
33 |
30.56 |
|
9 |
West Indies |
20 |
18.52 |
