Englandof emphatic victory over Pakistan in the first test Their three-match streak not only strengthened their position World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 situations but also demonstrated his growing dominance in Test cricket. The comprehensive victory by an innings and 47 runs reflects England’s superb form as they continue their fight for a place in the WTC final.
England’s win boosts their World Test Championship campaign
England’s top batsman in a batting and bowling masterclass Joe Root while leading the charge with a sensational double century Harry Brooke He came into limelight with a triple century, a rare feat in Test cricket. England’s bowlers were equally dominant with the left-arm spinner Jack Leach Taking seven wickets in both innings, he dismantled Pakistan’s batting line-up.
This dominant performance pushed England to 4th place in the WTC tournament with 93 points. Having played 17 games in the tournament, England won 9, lost 7 and drew 1 match. With five matches left in the campaign, England face a must-win situation to bolster their chances of qualifying for the WTC finals.
Also READ: Twitter reactions: Harry Brook, Joe Root break records as England cruise to huge win over Pakistan in 1st Test
Pakistan’s struggle continues
For Pakistan, this loss was a new low in their WTC journey. This defeat leaves them at the bottom of the WTC tournament with only 16 points. Having won just two of their eight matches, Pakistan have lost six, making their prospects of qualifying for the WTC final almost impossible. The team’s erratic form in the longest format of the game is a growing concern and this heavy defeat further exposes the gaps in their performance.
Race to WTC Final: India, Australia and Sri Lanka battle it out
Despite England remaining in the hunt, the Indian cricket team continues to dominate the WTC standings, sitting comfortably at the top with 98 points. India have played 11 matches, won eight and lost only twice, with one draw. Their upcoming fixtures include the highly anticipated three-match Test series New Zealand and Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 against Australiawill be decisive. India need to win at least three of the next eight matches to secure a place in the WTC finals.
Australiacurrently in 2nd place with 90 points from 12 matches, it remains a strong opponent. With eight wins and one draw to just three defeats, they will be looking to overtake India during the BGT series in what is expected to be a key event at the WTC.
Sri LankaIt ranked third with 60 points. They have won five of their nine games and will need to continue their winning form to challenge the top teams in the standings. Staying competitive in the remaining matches will determine whether they stay in the hunt for a place in the finals.
