INDIA AND SOUTH AFRICA EMBARK ON STRONG COURSE IN WORLD TEST CHAMPIONSHIP

The latest round of matches in the ongoing Test series has brought some thrilling wins and crushing defeats, reshuffling the pecking order of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings. The completion of the first test of each series saw India and South Africa emerge triumphant, securing crucial points that have significantly enhanced their chances of clinching a spot at Lord's next year.

However, Sri Lanka's surprise loss and Australia's defeat have set back the prospects of these teams, who now need to raise their game to avoid falling even further behind their rivals. The pressure is mounting on both squads as they strive to improve their point percentage in the WTC, which currently stands out the way of some potential top-four finishers.

Not to be counted out, New Zealand's latest loss to England has delivered a crushing blow to their aspirations, leaving them at a distant 54% on the WTC table. The result is particularly vexing, given the Black Caps' reputation for being one of the most competitive teams in Test cricket.

In contrast, the West Indies have bounced back after a dismal run at the bottom of the standings with an emphatic victory over Bangladesh, giving them hope of salvaging their campaign and emerging from the pack. As the series moves forward, these outcomes serve as a reminder that each win or loss has significant implications for the world's top teams in the coming months.