New Zealand extend lead in World Test Championship table after historic series win, India remain at No. 3

New Zealand maintained the top position in the World Test Championship rankings. The BlackCaps registered their first-ever series victory over South Africa in Test cricket. Kane Williamson led New Zealand to a historic series sweep over an inexperienced South African side.  

New Zealand climbed to the top spot of the points table and continued their dominance in the WTC rankings. The hosts defeated South Africa by 7 wickets in the 2nd Test match at Hamilton. Williamson scored 133, his 7th ton in the last 7 matches, to help New Zealand chase down a challenging 4th innings target of 267 runs. New Zealand's debutant, William O'Rourke, picked up 9 wickets in the match, including a 5-wicket haul during the 3rd innings, and was named as the player of the match. | NZ vs SA, 2nd Test Day 4 Scorecard |

In the 2023-25 World Test Championship cycle, New Zealand have played 4 matches so far and managed to win 3 and lose just 1 against Bangladesh. They boast of a point percentage of 75.00 and 36 points to their name. Australia have played 10 matches and won 6 of them, losing 2 matches against England in the Ashes and 1 against the West Indies, taking the tally to 3. They have managed a draw and have a point percentage of 55.00 and 66 points. Standing at No. 3, India has played 6 matches so far, managing 3 wins, 2 losses and a draw. The point percentage stands at 52.77 with 38 points. 

India had propelled themselves to the 2nd spot in the WTC rankings after a win in the 2nd Test against England in Vizag on February 5. However, there was a 10-day gap between the Vizag Test and the 3rd Test match which is currently underway at the Rajkot Stadium. In between this gap, New Zealand stood at No. 4 position in the rankings on February 4 and a thumping win by 281 runs in the 1st Test helped the Kiwis reach the top spot. They displaced Australia to reach the No.1 ranking.