South Africa has surged to the top of the WTC points table after a 109-run victory against Sri Lanka in the second test at Gqeberha. The win also sees a clean sweep 2-0 victory for Proteas.
With this win, South Africa has 63.33 percentage points, surpassing Australia which has 60.71. Notably, Australia had claimed the spot just a day earlier after a 10-wicket victory against India in the Pink-ball test of the Border Gavaksar Trophy.
India currently occupies the third position with 57.29 percentage points while Sri Lanka sit fourth with 4.45 percentage points.
After their win, South Africa’s hopes of making to the WTC finals at Lord’s in June next year hinge on their performance in the remaining two home fixtures against Pakistan.
Australia’s reign at the top of the #WTC25 standings was short-lived as new leaders emerge after South Africa’s whitewash of Sri Lanka 👀 #SAvSL | Details 👇
— ICC (@ICC) December 9, 2024
In the second test, spinner Keshav Maharaj was instrumental in South Africa’s victory, claiming five wickets on the final day. Maharaj’s figures of 5/76 helped dismiss Sri Lanka for 238,as the proteas took only 70 minutes to pick 5 remaining wickets.
The match was a thriller with both teams needing a win a stay in contention for a spot in the WTC final. However, South Africa’s clinical display ensured their dominance and kept their dream of competing in the Lord’s final alive.
Keshav Maharaj and Kagiso Rabada made short work of it and wrapped up the proceedings in an hour to complete a magnificent win by 109 runs in the second test and series win also.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka has reduced their PCT to 45.45 and even if they win both their remaining against Australia at home in January-February, their PCT will only get to 53.84 which might not be enough for them to make it throught as they will have to depend upnon several other results for a place in the summit clash.
The focus will now solely be on the ongoing Border Gavaskar Trophy with India and Australia both alive in the qualification race.
