New Zealand won a historic victory over India They took a crucial 1-0 lead in the three-match series in the first Test in Bengaluru on Sunday (October 20). The win was particularly significant as it marked New Zealand’s first Test win on Indian soil since 1988. The match witnessed an incredible performance by the New Zealand bowlers who bowled India out for a paltry 46 runs in their first innings.
New Zealand’s triumph and India’s debacle in Bangalore
Matt Henry He led the charge with a fiery spell, claiming 5/15 and making the most of the Indian conditions. In response, New Zealand capitalized on their lead Rachin Ravindra His century, along with a late cameo of 65 from Tim Southee, helped New Zealand post a mammoth total of 402 and put India under huge pressure. India’s second innings saw a strong fight mainly because of this Sarfaraz Khanof brave 150 and Rishabh pantsaggressive 99.
But the second new ball is skillfully controlled by Henry and William O’Rourkerestricting India’s lead to just 106, swinging the momentum back in New Zealand’s favour. New Zealand easily chased down a modest target of 107 on the fifth day. Will Young and Ravindra’s unbeaten 39. The victory gave New Zealand not only a historic Test victory but also a significant psychological advantage in the series.
Positions of India and New Zealand in the WTC 2023-25 ​​points table
This defeat had a significant impact on India’s position in the region ICC World Test Championship (WTC) tournament table. India’s points percentage (PCT) fell from 74.24 to 68.05, reducing its lead at the top of the WTC table. Despite the defeat, India remain at the number one spot, but in second place Australia reduced to only 5.5 percent.
Both teams have the same record in terms of wins, losses and draws; however, Australia’s PCT stands at 62.5 due to excessive penalties resulting in points being deducted. On the other hand, New Zealand’s impressive win lifted them from 37.50 percent to 44.44 percent, moving them up to fourth place in the standings. This increase in their PCT allowed them to leapfrog both South Africa and England. while Sri Lanka Remaining comfortable in third place with 55.56 per cent, New Zealand’s improved standing keeps them within striking distance of a potential WTC final berth.
Also READ: Fans react as New Zealand celebrate their first Test win in India since 1988
India’s WTC Finals Qualifying Scenarios
India’s road to the WTC final became increasingly difficult after losing to New Zealand. With their points percentage (PCT) now reduced to 68.05, India’s once comfortable lead at the top of the WTC table has narrowed considerably. India need to win at least five of the remaining seven matches to secure a place in the finals, regardless of other teams’ results. These matches include two more Tests against New Zealand and five high-stakes matches Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) Australian series. A win in five of those games would boost their PCT enough to secure a spot in the WTC finals.
Nevertheless, India has some margin of error. If they can only win four, their qualification will depend on other results going in their favour. Factors like Australia losing some of their upcoming matches or other teams like Sri Lanka and South Africa dropping points could open the door for India to reach the finals with fewer wins.
Nevertheless, every match from here on is crucial for India, especially as Australia hang their necks down with just 5.5 per cent in the rankings. India should also avoid any excessive fines that could lead to points deductions and make their chances even more difficult. Their second Test against New Zealand in Pune turns out to be a must-win not only to level the series but also to keep their WTC finals hopes in check.
