News by “Sana Ullah”
Australia has surged ahead of India in the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 rankings following their commanding eight-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Sydney Test. This win secured a 3-0 series sweep, further solidifying Australia’s dominance in the cricketing arena after their successful 2023 campaign where they clinched both the World Test Championship Final and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
In the New Year’s Test at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, Australia showcased their prowess with a comprehensive eight-wicket triumph, propelling them to the top of the World Test Championship standings. This victory, coupled with India’s 1-1 series draw in South Africa, also elevated Australia to the pinnacle of the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings.
Australia now leads the World Test Championship table with 56.25 percentage points, surpassing India, who currently holds the second spot with 54.16 percentage points. Meanwhile, Pakistan, now positioned at No. 6, witnessed a notable decrease in percentage points, dropping from 45.83 before the Sydney Test to 36.66 after the defeat.
The Sydney Test witnessed a competitive first-innings performance from Pakistan, posting 313 runs with notable contributions from Mohammad Rizwan, Agha Salman, and Aamer Jamal. However, Australia bounced back, dismissing Pakistan for 299, courtesy of an impressive bowling display by Aamer Jamal (6/69).
With a narrow 14-run lead, Pakistan faltered in their second innings, managing only 115 runs. Australia’s bowlers, led by Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon, swiftly dismantled the opposition. The hosts efficiently chased down the target in just 25.5 overs on day four, with David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne delivering match-winning performances.
