Updated WTC Points Table: How England’s Boxing Day Win Impacts India’s Final Hopes

Updated WTC Points Table: England produced one of their most memorable overseas performances in recent years with a stunning four-wicket victory over Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Boxing Day.

While the Ashes urn was already secured by Australia after taking an unassailable 3-0 lead, the result has sent significant ripples through the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 points table—and India are among the teams watching closely.

Australia Suffers First Setback of the WTC Cycle

Before the Melbourne Test, Australia were cruising through the WTC cycle with a perfect 100% points percentage (PCT). England’s surprise win marked Australia’s first defeat of the 2025–27 cycle, immediately reducing their PCT to 85.71%.

Despite the loss, Pat Cummins’ side remain firmly at the top of the table and are still strong favourites to qualify for the WTC final. However, the defeat has narrowed the gap between Australia and the chasing pack, especially New Zealand, and has reopened the race for the top two spots.

England’s Morale Boost, But Table Position Still a Concern

For Ben Stokes and England, the Melbourne win is massive from a confidence perspective. It was England’s first Test victory in Australia in 19 matches, a drought that stretched back decades.

In WTC terms, however, the climb remains steep. England now has 12 points in the current cycle, moving to a PCT of 35.18%, which places them seventh on the table. While they remain well outside the top five, this win keeps their slim qualification hopes alive and gives them momentum heading into future series.

Biggest Winners: New Zealand and South Africa

Australia’s slip-up has been quietly welcomed by New Zealand and South Africa, both of whom are positioned well in the standings. With Australia no longer flawless, the psychological advantage of topping the table is now up for grabs.

For these teams, consistency rather than dominance could be enough to push into the top two if Australia drop further points later in the cycle.

What This Means for India

India currently sit sixth in the WTC 2025–27 points table with a PCT of 48.15%. While England’s win does not immediately harm India’s position, it increases pressure on Rohit Sharma’s side to deliver results in upcoming series.

With Australia and New Zealand setting a strong pace, India will likely need a near-perfect run at home and competitive performances away to force their way into the top two. England are now closing in from below, and although they haven’t overtaken India yet, another win or two could change the equation quickly.

Eyes on the Final Ashes Test

The fifth and final Test of the Ashes will begin on January 4 at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Australia will be eager to reassert their dominance and steady their WTC campaign, while England will aim to build on their Melbourne momentum and continue climbing the table.

Final Takeaway

England’s Boxing Day triumph may not change the Ashes outcome, but its impact on the World Test Championship race is significant. Australia remain in control, but the door is now ajar. For India, the message is clear: there is little margin for error from here on if they want to stay in contention for another WTC final appearance.