The first Test played at Kolkata's historic Eden Gardens has caused significant upheaval in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. In the inaugural match of this two-match series, India suffered a 30-run defeat against South Africa.
World Test Championship: The first match of the two-Test series, held at Kolkata's historic Eden Gardens, has brought about a major upset in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. In an exciting contest, India faced a 30-run defeat against South Africa, which directly impacted Team India's WTC ranking.
While the match will be remembered for the lethal bowling of both teams, for India, this result has proven to be a significant setback in the WTC race.
A Bowlers' Battle, But India Slipped Up
This Test at Eden Gardens was entirely dominated by the bowlers. From day one, the ball was turning sharply on the pitch, and seam movement troubled the batsmen.
India bowled brilliantly, dismissing South Africa for 159 runs. Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah maintained constant pressure with excellent line and length.
In response, the Indian team scored 189 runs, securing a 30-run lead. This advantage had put India in a b position, and the match largely seemed to be in Team India's grasp. However, the game turned from there. South Africa batted patiently in their second innings, scoring 155 runs — a total that injected new life into the contest. India was left with a target of just 124 runs, which was considered achievable.
Earthquake in WTC Points Table
This defeat directly impacted the World Test Championship rankings.
- India Takes a Hit
- India's points percentage dropped to 54.17%.
- The team slipped from third to fourth place.
- Despite being in a b position in the series, this loss has pushed India back in the WTC race.
- South Africa's Big Leap
- This victory significantly boosted the Proteas' campaign.
- South Africa's points percentage reached 66.67%.
- They jumped from fifth to second place.
- Although Sri Lanka has similar points, South Africa moved ahead based on a higher number of wins.
- Pakistan's Position Also Worsened
- India's defeat also affected Pakistan.
- Pakistan slipped from fourth to fifth place in the points table.
- India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka — all three teams lost one spot each.
- Currently, Australia firmly holds the top spot with 3 wins from 3 matches.
India is now 0-1 down in the series, and the second Test has become a do-or-die situation for the team. Another defeat could severely impact Team India's WTC final race.
