India’s cricket team has achieved a significant milestone by claiming the top spot in the MRF Tyres ICC Men’s Test Rankings. With an impressive performance, Rohit Sharma’s side has leapfrogged Australia in the annual rankings update, dethroning them after a reign of 15 months. This development sets the stage for an exhilarating encounter between the two teams in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship Final. The highly anticipated match will take place at the iconic venue of The Oval, known as the Ultimate Test, on 7th June.
India Vs Australia WTC Final 2023
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The Battle of Titans: India vs Australia
The rivalry between India and Australia in Test cricket has recently become one of the most captivating and fiercely contested competitions. Both teams have showcased exceptional skills, determination, and sportsmanship, captivating fans worldwide. The latest rankings reversal further intensifies this rivalry, adding to the excitement surrounding the World Test Championship Final.
Rankings Update: India Takes the Crown
Before the annual rankings update, Australia held the top position with 122 points, while India closely followed with 119 points. The rankings consider all series completed since May 2020, with earlier series weighted 50 per cent and subsequent series weighted 100 per cent. This methodology ensures that recent performances have a greater impact on the rankings.
As a result of the update, Australia’s home series victories against Pakistan (2-0) and New Zealand (3-0) in 2019/20 were no longer considered, and their 4-0 triumph over England in 2021/22 had its weighting reduced by half. Consequently, Australia’s rating dropped from 121 to 116. On the other hand, India’s 2-0 defeat against New Zealand in 2019/20 was no longer factored into the rankings, resulting in a two-point boost from 119 to 121.
ICC Latest Test Ranking Table Photo: ICC
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Australia’s Rise and Fall
Australia’s ascent to the summit of the Test rankings occurred during Pat Cummins’ inaugural series as captain. They dominated England 4-0 in the home Ashes series in January 2022, propelling them to the top spot. However, their reign was short-lived, as a month prior, India held the number one position until a 2-0 loss to South Africa led to their displacement.
England’s Resurgence
England’s fortunes have seen a positive shift under the captaincy of Ben Stokes. Their recent performances have helped them narrow the gap to second place, reducing the deficit from 13 points to just two. The weightage of their 4-0 Ashes defeat and the 1-0 series loss away against West Indies has also been decreased, contributing to their upward trajectory.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new No.1 MRF Tyres ICC Men’s Test Rankings team?
India has overtaken Australia to become the new No.1 team in the MRF Tyres ICC Men’s Test Rankings.
How long did Australia hold the top spot in the rankings?
Australia reigned at the top for 15 months before being surpassed by India.
When is the ICC World Test Championship Final scheduled to take place?
The ICC World Test Championship Final between India and Australia will be held on 7th June.
What factors are considered in the annual rankings update?
The annual rankings update considers all series completed since May 2020, with earlier series weighted at 50 per cent and subsequent series weighted at 100 per cent.
What caused Australia’s drop in ratings?
Australia’s home series wins over Pakistan and New Zealand in 2019