India has replaced New Zealand to become the top-ranked team in the ICC Test rankings after beating England by five wickets in the fourth Test in Ranchi, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.
With this win, they have jumped to the top of the World ICC Test Championship (WTC) standings, replacing New Zealand in the latest rankings issued on March 3.
India achieved this with a stronger points percentage of 64.58, having won five out of eight matches, with two losses and one draw, earning 62 points. On the other hand, the Black Caps have 36 points from five matches, with three wins and two losses, and have a point percentage of 60.00.
With 36 points from four games and a points percentage of 75, New Zealand was leading the table prior to the start of the Wellington Test. However, following their massive 172-run defeat, they lost the top spot, slipping to the No. 2 place with a 60 point percentage.
Third-placed Australia has closed the gap after the Wellington Test, gaining 12 crucial points as they now have 78 points from 11 matches, with seven wins, three losses, and one draw. Their points percentage has also increased from 55 to 59.09.
Australia has the opportunity to surpass New Zealand and move up to the second spot if they win the second and final Test at Christchurch on March 8. India, meanwhile, takes on England in the final match of the five-Test series in Dharamsala from March 7. If India loses the Dharamsala Test against England, Australia can go up to the top.
