5 key moments that changed World Test Championship race in 2025

The World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle has taken a different turn as we reach the end of the first year. As of now, Australia are leading the points table with 100 PCT while the West Indies are last with zero wins so far. When the cycle started, there were a lot of hopes on India as they had drew the series in England. 

However, as the season progressed, India kept losing their charm as well as their place in the WTC points table. There were various incidents that shaped the future of the WTC 2025-27 cycle and we shall discuss those events in the article. 

Top 5 key events that changed WTC 2025-27 cycle race

1. Australia’s perfect start 

Australia’s unbeaten run at the start of the WTC cycle immediately changed the tone of the competition. Winning six Tests on the bounce gave them a massive points buffer and put early pressure on every other contender. 

The Ashes 2025-26 has been going well for the mighty Aussies as they have showcased some best performances throughout. They are playing a team game where contributions from every individual is visible. If Australia continue to win games, they will qualify for the WTC Final third time in a row. 

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

2. New Zealand’s series win over West Indies

New Zealand’s victory against West Indies proved far more significant than it appeared on paper. The win boosted their points percentage sharply and pushed them above teams like India and Pakistan. This single result tightened the mid-table race and showed how quickly standings could change under the WTC’s percentage-based system.

They started their campaign late but have now put themselves in a strong position. They are currently at the second position with two wins in three games. With many more series coming their way, New Zealand will aim to keep the winning momentum going. 

3. India’s home defeat against South Africa

India dropping points in home Tests turned out to be one of the most damaging moments of the year. Home matches are traditionally where India bank maximum points, so losing there had a double impact, lowering their own percentage while allowing rivals to pull ahead. Despite having a great start to the WTC cycle by winning two games in England, India struggled to win the 2-match series against South Africa. 

The Men in Blue started the campaign at the 3rd position but are now at the sixth position with just 48.15 PCT. To stay alive in the race, India will have to win the upcoming matches, especially the home games. 

4. South Africa’s strong overseas performances

South Africa’s ability to win away from home quietly reshaped the standings. While others struggled on foreign tours, South Africa picked up crucial victories that kept their points percentage healthy. They started with a series win against Zimbabwe and then drew the series against Pakistan. 

The real difference came when they whitewashed the series against India in India, helping them strengthen their position in the points table. They have won three out of four matches, with one ending in a draw. This current PCT is 75 and they have a fair chance of qualifying for the finals yet again if they continue to dominate in the away matches. 

5. England’s points deduction and inconsistent results

England’s slow over-rate penalties against India combined with a string of losses might cost them some serious trouble in the WTC conversation. The points deduction, paired with inconsistent performances, became a turning point, not just for England, but for the teams around them, who benefited from England dropping out of the race.

Despite being one of the best Test teams in the world, England have just managed to win two out of eight games, and are at the eight position in the points table. So far, they have failed to qualify for the WTC Final even once and if they continue to perform this way, they will fall out of the qualifications race soon.