Both New Zealand and England are docked 3 penalty points each: Kiwis drop down to 5th
New Zealand and England have both been penalized three points in the World Test Championship standings due to slow over rates during their first Test in Christchurch. This penalty significantly impacts New Zealand’s hopes of qualifying for the final, as they now sit fifth with a points percentage of 47.92, behind Sri Lanka, Australia, South Africa, and India. Despite their eight-wicket victory over New Zealand, England is already out of contention for the final.
New Zealand can only achieve a maximum points percentage of 55.36 if they win their remaining two matches against England. This scenario necessitates not only victories but also favorable outcomes in other matches to keep their qualification hopes alive. The International Cricket Council (ICC) stated that both teams were fined 15% of their match fees and docked crucial points after being found three overs short of the required target.
With South Africa (59.26), Australia (57.26), and Sri Lanka (50) ahead in the standings, New Zealand’s path to the Lord’s final in 2025 has become increasingly challenging. Captains Tom Latham and Ben Stokes accepted the penalties without contesting them, acknowledging the implications for their teams’ aspirations in the championship.