WTC 2023-25 Points Table: Here’s a look at the latest standings after South Africa’s Test win in Gqeberha against Sri Lanka. (Photo Source: Twitter/X)
The hosts South Africa registered a comfortable 109-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second Test at St George’s Park, Gqeberha completing a 2-0 series sweep and climbing to the top of the World Test Championship standings. The final day began with Sri Lanka at 205-5, chasing a target of 348.
However, their hopes of a comeback quickly faded as South African bowlers, led by left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj, dismantled the tail. Maharaj claimed five wickets for 76 runs, dismissing the visitors for 238.
Maharaj broke a crucial 97-run sixth-wicket stand, with Kusal Mendis caught low at slip by Aiden Markram for 46. Mendis’ departure was soon followed by captain Dhananjaya de Silva, who edged a delivery from Kagiso Rabada to the wicketkeeper after scoring a fifty.
From there, the Sri Lankan tail crumbled under relentless pressure. Maharaj bagged Prabath Jayasuriya and Vishwa Fernando, while Marco Jansen ended the match by dismissing Lahiru Kumara off the first ball of his spell.
The Proteas’ series victory was built on solid team performances. Captain Temba Bavuma was named Player of the Series for his consistent contributions, scoring 327 runs across both matches. Meanwhile, Dane Paterson’s all-round effort in the second Test, including figures of 5/71 in the first innings and key wickets in the second, earned him the Player of the Match award.
This result strengthens South Africa’s chances of securing a spot in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s next year. With two home Tests remaining against Pakistan, they have their destiny in their own hands.
South Africa inch closer to WTC Final spot
In the WTC points table (World Test Championship 2023-25), South Africa has climbed up to the top spot after clinching the two-match Test series over Sri Lanka. Bavuma & Co. made a strong case for themselves to play their maiden WTC final. With three losses in 10 matches this cycle, Proteas has 76 points with a PCT of 63.33%. On the other hand, the Lankans still hold the fourth position with 60 points and a PCT of 45.45%.
South Africa requires one more win game out of their remaining two matches to qualify without depending on other results. For Sri Lanka, the road ahead is tough as they have to depend on other results to qualify, even after winning both their remaining fixtures, against the defending champions Aussies.
Also Read: WTC Final: Qualification scenarios for all teams in contention
Latest WTC 2023-25 Points Table:
| Position | Team | Matches | Won | Lost | Drawn | Points | PCT (%) |
| 1 | SOUTH AFRICA | 10 | 6 | 3 | 1 | 76 | 63.33 |
| 2 | AUSTRALIA | 14 | 9 | 4 | 1 | 102 | 60.71 |
| 3 | INDIA | 16 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 110 | 57.29 |
| 4 | SRI LANKA | 11 | 5 | 6 | 0 | 60 | 45.45 |
| 5 | ENGLAND | 21 | 11 | 9 | 1 | 114 | 45.24 |
| 6 | NEW ZEALAND | 13 | 6 | 7 | 0 | 69 | 44.23 |
| 7 | PAKISTAN | 10 | 4 | 6 | 0 | 40 | 33.33 |
| 8 | BANGLADESH | 12 | 4 | 8 | 0 | 45 | 31.25 |
| 9 | WEST INDIES | 11 | 2 | 7 | 2 | 32 | 24.24 |
Last updated – December 09, 2024, after SA victory versus SL in the Gqeberha Test.
Disclaimer: This latest news is based on the author’s understanding, analysis, and instinct. As you review this information, consider the points mentioned and form your own conclusions.