New Zealand dropped from second to fourth in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings after a 115-run defeat by England in the first Test at Lord’s on Sunday. The result was a blow to the Black Caps in their bid to remain among the top contenders for a place in the WTC finals in June 2027, where only the top two teams will qualify.The match was hampered by rain and a difficult pitch at Lord’s which offered uneven bounce. England were bundled out for just 140 runs in their first innings, but their bowlers fought back strongly by dismissing New Zealand for 113 runs to take a slim lead. In the second innings, England recovered well, with Emilio Gay scoring a crucial 57 to help the hosts post 226 and set a tough target.New Zealand struggled with the bat throughout the contest. Rain curtailed play on the third day but when the action resumed, the visitors failed to capitalize. The fourth day started at 55 for five, they were eventually bundled out for 138, with Glenn Phillips scoring an unbeaten 44.Pacer Ollie Robinson played an important role in England’s victory. After taking five wickets in New Zealand’s first innings, he also scored 29 valuable runs and took 2 wickets for 38 runs in the second innings.The win was a temporary boost for England after their recent 4-1 Ashes series defeat against Australia. However, despite the victory, England remain seventh in the WTC standings with four wins from 11 matches.
Australia topped; War between India and Pakistan
Australia continue to top the WTC table with 84 points and a percentage of 87.50 points, having won seven of their eight matches. South Africa is second and Sri Lanka is third.New Zealand are fourth with 58.33 points, tied with Bangladesh but leading on a tiebreaker. India is sixth with 52 points and 48.15 points percentage while England is seventh. Pakistan are second in the ninth position with just one win from four matches, ahead of only the West Indies.
ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 Latest Standings
