South Africa’s Kagiso Rabada, second right, celebrates with teammates the wicket of Australia’s Mitchell Starc on day five of the second cricket test match between South Africa and Australia, in Gqeberha, South Africa. AP/PTI(AP10_22_2026_000306B)
South Africa’s innings-and-31-run victory over Australia in the second Test in Gqeberha has made the race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final more competitive.
Australia have a points percentage (PCT) of 75.00, while New Zealand are second at 72.22 and South Africa sit third at 66.67. To finish with a PCT of 60, India need to collect 62 points from these matches and cannot afford to lose more than two Tests. Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news , check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule . Australia sit top of the points table despite their innings-and-31-run defeat, which was only their third loss in 12 matches. They have a PCT of 75.00, ahead of New Zealand in second and South Africa in third. The win took the Proteas’ PCT to 66.67, although that was not enough to overtake the Kiwis, who remain second with a PCT of 72.22 ahead of their two-match series against India.
Their upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia will therefore be crucial to their chances of reaching the final at The Oval in London next year. the defeat stops them from extending their lead and gives other teams, including India, some hope Although Australia remain at the top of the standings. India are currently fifth in the standings, with seven Tests remaining in the cycle — two against New Zealand and five against Australia at home. WTC standings after South Africa’s win over Australia However, even a strong finish may not guarantee qualification. India also need at least two of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa to drop points in their remaining matches. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines Bangladesh, currently fourth, remain in contention for a place in the final. Four of their six remaining Tests will be played at home, giving them an opportunity to collect valuable points. They will need to make the most of home conditions and hope that teams above them lose points. South Africa’s win has kept the competition open, but India still face a difficult task and will need both consistent performances and favourable results elsewhere to reach the final. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.
Earlier reporting noted: South Africa’s innings win over Australia in the second Test in Gqeberha on Thursday has fired the World Test Championship (WTC) final race wide open.
