India slip in World Test Championship standings as NZ shake up race after WI series

India drop a place in the ICC World Test Championship points table after New Zealand’s crucial win over West Indies, intensifying the race for a spot in the WTC final.

Team India (Image Credit: BCCI)

India’s position in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 standings has taken a setback following New Zealand’s victory over West Indies in the third Test. The result has triggered a reshuffle in the points table, pushing India down by one spot, which is extremely embarrasing and has pushed the Men in Blue one more step away from the WTC Final.

While India were not directly involved in the New Zealand–West Indies series, the WTC’s points-percentage system means every Test result across the globe has a ripple effect. New Zealand’s win boosted their points tally and percentage, allowing them to leapfrog India in the standings.

As a result, India now find themselves under increased pressure in an already congested mid-table race. India are in the 6th position with 48.15 PCT while Australia are leading the points table with 100 PCT. With two victories out of three matches, New Zealand have jumped to the second position with 77.78 PCT.

What India must do to rise in WTC standings?

India’s drop in the World Test Championship table has made the qualification race uncomfortable, but it is far from a dead end. The standings are still tightly packed, and with several teams separated by slim margins, a strong run can quickly change the picture. However, what has changed is the margin for error, India can no longer rely on other results going their way.

The simplest way up the table is also the hardest: start winning consistently. India need to make victories a habit again, especially after a phase where missed opportunities have cost them dearly. Draws might help on difficult tours, but losses are now extremely damaging.

Home Tests remain India’s biggest opportunity. Historically, home dominance has been the backbone of every successful WTC campaign, and this cycle should be no different. Strong bowling plans, long batting partnerships and closing out matches efficiently at home could quickly pull India back into contention.

Where to watch the India vs New Zealand match?

Cricket fans in India can watch the India vs New Zealand 1st ODI match on January 11 online on JioHotstar, via OTTplay Premium.

Also read: India’s WTC campaign suffers blow after embarrasing defeat vs SA

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