India registered a resounding victory over England by 106 runs in the second India vs England Test match in Visakhapatnam on February 5 (Monday), and consequently have climbed to the second position in the World Test Championship 2023-25 (WTC) points table. This triumph boosted India's Percentage of Points (PCT) to 52.77, enabling them to surpass South Africa, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, all of whom have a PCT of 50.
India, initially positioned fifth after their loss to England in the first IND vs ENG Test in Hyderabad, were helped by outstanding batting performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, along with a stellar bowling display by Jasprit Bumrah and Ravichandran Ashwin, allowing them to level the five-match series at 1-1.
Have A Look At The Updated WTC 2023-25 Standings Here:
Australia, the reigning champions, maintain their top position in the standings with 55% points. However, their hold on the top spot could be in jeopardy as another World Test Championship (WTC) match is presently in progress at Bay Oval between New Zealand and South Africa. The outcome of this ongoing match could potentially impact Australia's standing at the pinnacle of the WTC standings.
India's All-round Perfomance Helps Them To Big Victory In Visakhapatnam
Coming back to the IND vs ENG 2nd Test, the 22-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his grit by achieving his maiden Test double hundred. Jasprit Bumrah, in the first innings, delivered a splendid performance bagging six wickets. Shubman Gill ended his poor form with a Test hundred at No.3 in India’s second innings, contributing significantly to the team's success. Ashwin, along with Bumrah, played a pivotal role by dismantling England's top-order, ultimately aiding the hosts in securing a notable 106-run victory in Visakhapatnam.
England, starting day four at 67 for one, aimed to chase down a record target of 399. However, India managed to dismiss them for 292 during the extended afternoon session, taking nine wickets in two sessions. Despite England's typically bold approach, which had proven successful in the past, India's determined performance allowed them to make a comeback in the five-match series.
The upcoming third Test is scheduled to take place in Rajkot starting from February 15.