India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Setting up a daunting 540-run target, India had claimed five Kiwi wickets and bundled them out for a paltry 167 early this morning to win the series 1-0.&nbsp;

It was a dominating performance from Team India, who were in a spot of bother at 80 for 3 in the first innings but recovered in style and hammered the Black Caps as India won their first-ever Test series in the Rahul Dravid-era.

Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out in the first essay. Ajaz Patel became the third bowler to claim ten wickets in an innings in the purest format but NZ fell like nine pins against India's spin trio -- Jayant Yadav, R Ashwin and Axar Patel -- to be bundled out for&nbsp;62 in their first innings. In reply, India declared at 276/7 courtesy vital knocks from Mayank, Axar, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara. In reply, the NZ batting line-up's struggles continued as they failed to pose any fight.

After the end of the two Tests between India and current Test&nbsp;champions NZ, here's the updated points table of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC:

<img alt="WTC Points Table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7a273f1-e3b6-46c1-9b5f-0552f50aca94" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Screenshot_2021-12-06-10-33-08-02.jpg" />

(Photo: Screen grab)

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-opines-on-rahul-dravid-led-support-staff-taking-over-from-shastri-co-after-nz-series-win-434487">Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri &amp; Co. after NZ series win</a>

Kohli&nbsp;opined at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. "

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-new-zealand-2nd-test-virat-kohli-and-co-beat-kiwis-by-372-runs-to-win-test-series-1-0-434467">India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0</a>

Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances."

India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests whereas New Zealand will host Bangladesh in two-match Test series.

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6).

India took less than a session on Day 4 to wrap up proceedings and thrash New Zealand by 372 runs in the second and final Test at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Monday morning (December 6). Setting up a daunting 540-run target, India had claimed five Kiwi wickets and bundled them out for a paltry 167 early this morning to win the series 1-0. It was a dominating performance from Team India, who were in a spot of bother at 80 for 3 in the first innings but recovered in style and hammered the Black Caps as India won their first-ever Test series in the Rahul Dravid-era. Opting to bat first, India rode on Mayank Agarwal's 150 to post 325 all-out in the first essay. Ajaz Patel became the third bowler to claim ten wickets in an innings in the purest format but NZ fell like nine pins against India's spin trio -- Jayant Yadav, R Ashwin and Axar Patel -- to be bundled out for 62 in their first innings. In reply, India declared at 276/7 courtesy vital knocks from Mayank, Axar, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara. In reply, the NZ batting line-up's struggles continued as they failed to pose any fight. After the end of the two Tests between India and current Test champions NZ, here's the updated points table of the ongoing second cycle of the WTC: (Photo: Screen grab) ALSO READ | Virat Kohli opines on Rahul Dravid-led support staff taking over from Shastri & Co. after NZ series win Kohli opined at the post-match presentation, "To come back with a win again, it's a great feeling and a clinical performance. You want individuals to step up. The first Test was good, and it was a clinical performance here. We discussed the performance and the opposition played out a good draw. The bowlers tried all their best, but the Kiwi batsmen stuck it out really well in Kanpur. Here there was more bounce and the fast bowlers got assistance as well, so it gave us a better chance to win the Test match. The mindset is the same to take Indian cricket forward, even with the new management. It's important to keep the standards of Indian cricket and make sure it's always growing. " ALSO READ | India vs New Zealand, 2nd Test: Virat Kohli and Co beat Kiwis by 372 runs to win test series 1-0 Dravid, on the other hand, told the broadcasters, "Good to finish the Test series on a winning note, came very close in Kanpur, but couldn't take that last wicket. Credit to the team, they have pulled themselves back from tough situations, and were a bit disappointed at not finishing it off in Kanpur. Good to see the boys step up and take their opportunities, we were missing a few seniors, but the youngsters have taken their chances." India will now travel to South Africa for three Tests whereas New Zealand will host Bangladesh in two-match Test series.

Updated World Test Championship points table after India vs New Zealand series

Virat Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the town in the cricketing fraternity for quite some time. Under him, India remains a potent force across formats and have excelled in bilateral series. While&nbsp;they have also performed well in ICC events, the 32-year-old hasn't led India to a major title ever since he took over as the full-time captain in early 2017.

Nonetheless, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner following India's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final loss to New Zealand, in mid-2021. While India came back strongly in the preceding England Tests, with a 2-1 unassailable lead in the five Tests before the series came to an abrupt end, there are reports doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have complained about Kohli to the BCCI.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-vows-to-guide-virat-kohli-led-india-to-t20-wc-glory-while-recalling-ms-dhoni-cos-success-in-2007-416812">Rohit Sharma vows to guide Virat Kohli-led India to T20 WC glory while recalling MS Dhoni &amp; Co.'s success in 2007</a>

As of now, nothing concrete has emerged out. A&nbsp;report in the New Indian Express mentions that Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara reportedly called up the BCCI secretary Jay Shah following Kohli's post-match comments after the WTC final loss. Back then, Kohli had stated, "If you don't put their bowlers under pressure then they have the fitness and the consistency to bowl long spells and keep bowling all day in the same areas and trouble you, and the more momentum you give them, then invariably they get the breakthroughs they want. The mindset has to be to score runs and find ways to score runs. You can't be too worried about getting out because you are [then] bringing the bowler into the game completely."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2021-why-does-he-have-to-be-that-guy-again-asks-shane-warne-on-r-ashwin-eoin-morgan-altercation-416770">IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation</a>

In the WTC final, India had fell like nine pins in their second essay -- with Pujara and Rahane perishing for 15 apiece. Hence, it might be the case that Kohli's comments didn't go down well with the two Test specialists. Another Test specialist R Ashwin's name has also cropped up in this matter. As per a report in News18, it is the wily off-spinner who reportedly had a call with the BCCI secretary over Kohli's attitude.&nbsp;

Again, these are all speculations at the moment. However if it turns out to be true, Kohli might also lose out on Test captaincy whereas his ODI leadership skills will be scrutinised after India's performance in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will be the superstar cricketer's last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.&nbsp;

Virat Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the town in the cricketing fraternity for quite some time. Under him, India remains a potent force across formats and have excelled in bilateral series.

Virat Kohli's captaincy has been the talk of the town in the cricketing fraternity for quite some time. Under him, India remains a potent force across formats and have excelled in bilateral series. While they have also performed well in ICC events, the 32-year-old hasn't led India to a major title ever since he took over as the full-time captain in early 2017. Nonetheless, Kohli's captaincy has been under the scanner following India's ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final loss to New Zealand, in mid-2021. While India came back strongly in the preceding England Tests, with a 2-1 unassailable lead in the five Tests before the series came to an abrupt end, there are reports doing the rounds that some senior Indian cricketers have complained about Kohli to the BCCI. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma vows to guide Virat Kohli-led India to T20 WC glory while recalling MS Dhoni & Co.'s success in 2007 As of now, nothing concrete has emerged out. A report in the New Indian Express mentions that Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara reportedly called up the BCCI secretary Jay Shah following Kohli's post-match comments after the WTC final loss. Back then, Kohli had stated, "If you don't put their bowlers under pressure then they have the fitness and the consistency to bowl long spells and keep bowling all day in the same areas and trouble you, and the more momentum you give them, then invariably they get the breakthroughs they want. The mindset has to be to score runs and find ways to score runs. You can't be too worried about getting out because you are [then] bringing the bowler into the game completely." ALSO READ | IPL 2021: Why does he have to be that guy again, asks Shane Warne on R Ashwin-Eoin Morgan altercation In the WTC final, India had fell like nine pins in their second essay -- with Pujara and Rahane perishing for 15 apiece. Hence, it might be the case that Kohli's comments didn't go down well with the two Test specialists. Another Test specialist R Ashwin's name has also cropped up in this matter. As per a report in News18, it is the wily off-spinner who reportedly had a call with the BCCI secretary over Kohli's attitude. Again, these are all speculations at the moment. However if it turns out to be true, Kohli might also lose out on Test captaincy whereas his ODI leadership skills will be scrutinised after India's performance in the forthcoming T20 World Cup, which will be the superstar cricketer's last assignment as the captain in the shortest format.

Trouble for Virat Kohli? Senior cricketers complained about Indian skipper's attitude to BCCI's Jay Shah: Report

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday.

The losing team will get $ 800,000 for finishing second in the nine-team competition, which was played over a near two-year cycle, adding context to Test cricket and to crown the first official world champions in the longest format of the game.

The prize money for the team finishing third in the ICC World Test Championship Standings&nbsp;is $ 450,000. The team fourth on the table will be awarded $ 350,000, the one that finishes fifth gets $ 200,000 while the remaining four teams will get $ 100,000 each.

The Test Mace, previously given to teams topping the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings will now be given to the WTC winners. In case the final ends in a draw or a tie, the finalists will split the prize money for the first and second places and share possession of the Mace during the time they remain champions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-not-worried-about-new-zealands-advantage-in-wtc-final-says-cheteshwar-pujara-391376" hreflang="en">Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara</a>

About the Mace: The Mace, designed by English luxury brand Thomas Lyte, is based around the global nature of Test cricket and the competing nations.

The focal point of the Mace is the cricket ball since it is at the core of the game whether being bowled, hit or fielded. Encircling the ball is the globe, referencing the global reach of Test cricket and one can see the silver-gilt cricket ball through the oceans of the map.

The countries of the world are supported on the longitude lines you see on a globe – this allows for an interesting interplay of light on the different surfaces, especially as the mace is moved and catches that light. The world is surrounded by a central belt carrying the insignia of all 12 competing Test nations, with space to add others in the future.

A silver-gilt laurel band spirals up the shaft of the mace – the shaft itself styled as a stump – a reference to the all-important wicket.

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday.

The winners of the much-awaited ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final between India and New Zealand will take home a purse of $ 1.6 million along with the ICC Test Championship Mace, the International Cricket Council announced on Monday. The losing team will get $ 800,000 for finishing second in the nine-team competition, which was played over a near two-year cycle, adding context to Test cricket and to crown the first official world champions in the longest format of the game. The prize money for the team finishing third in the ICC World Test Championship Standings is $ 450,000. The team fourth on the table will be awarded $ 350,000, the one that finishes fifth gets $ 200,000 while the remaining four teams will get $ 100,000 each. The Test Mace, previously given to teams topping the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings will now be given to the WTC winners. In case the final ends in a draw or a tie, the finalists will split the prize money for the first and second places and share possession of the Mace during the time they remain champions. ALSO READ: Cricket: India 'not worried' about New Zealand's advantage in WTC Final, says Cheteshwar Pujara About the Mace: The Mace, designed by English luxury brand Thomas Lyte, is based around the global nature of Test cricket and the competing nations. The focal point of the Mace is the cricket ball since it is at the core of the game whether being bowled, hit or fielded. Encircling the ball is the globe, referencing the global reach of Test cricket and one can see the silver-gilt cricket ball through the oceans of the map. The countries of the world are supported on the longitude lines you see on a globe – this allows for an interesting interplay of light on the different surfaces, especially as the mace is moved and catches that light. The world is surrounded by a central belt carrying the insignia of all 12 competing Test nations, with space to add others in the future. A silver-gilt laurel band spirals up the shaft of the mace – the shaft itself styled as a stump – a reference to the all-important wicket.

Cricket: ICC World Test Championship Final - Details of WTC prize money announced

Team India handed England an innings defeat on Day 3 of the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. With this win, India go on top of the ICC Test rankings, as well as, booked their berth in the World Test Championship finals.&nbsp;

In pictures:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-vs-england-4th-test-virat-and-co-crush-england-to-book-a-berth-in-world-test-championship-finals-368450" hreflang="en">India vs England, 4th Test: Virat and Co. crush visitors to book a berth in World Test Championship finals</a>

Despite winning the toss first, England were bowled out on 205 on Day 1 of the Test with Ashwin and Axar picking up seven wickets. England all-rounder Ben Stokes top-scored with 55 and returning batsman Dan Lawrence made 46.

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India on 🔝 
 
Virat Kohli and Co. are No.1 in the <a href="https://twitter.com/MRFWorldwide?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MRFWorldwide</a> ICC Test Team Rankings 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/uHG4q0pUlj">pic.twitter.com/uHG4q0pUlj</a>
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In reply, India were off to a bad start as &nbsp;Gill was dismissed on the very third ball. On Day 2, India were down to 80 at the loss of four wickets, when Rishabh Pant stepped in to save the day for the hosts. Pant's century and Washington Sundar's unbeaten 96 &nbsp;powered India to 365 on Day 3.&nbsp;

India took a 160-run lead before being bowled out. England's batting woes continued as they were 91-6 at tea. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin reduced England to 10-2, dismissing Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow with successive deliveries. Bairstow fell for his third duck in four innings.

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That victory against England means India finish the league phase of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship with a fine view from the top of the table 🔝<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/rXFiKPXdB7">pic.twitter.com/rXFiKPXdB7</a>
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Dom Sibley fell for three in a bizarre manner, sweeping Axar Patel into Shubman Gill's body at short-leg with Rishabh Pant taking the catch after the ball ballooned up.

Patel dismissed Ben Stokes for two before Ashwin dealt a body blow by trapping England captain Joe Root for 30.

Dan Lawrence's brave 50 could not save the game for England as the hosts were bowled out 135 runs, giving an innings and 25 runs win to India.&nbsp;

India and New Zealand will face each other in the World Test Championship at Lord's.&nbsp;

The finals will be played to June 18-22.&nbsp;

Team India handed England an innings defeat on Day 3 of the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. With this win, India go on top of the ICC Test rankings, as well as, booked their berth in the World Test Championship finals.

Team India handed England an innings defeat on Day 3 of the fourth Test at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. With this win, India go on top of the ICC Test rankings, as well as, booked their berth in the World Test Championship finals. In pictures: India vs England, 4th Test: Virat and Co. crush visitors to book a berth in World Test Championship finals Despite winning the toss first, England were bowled out on 205 on Day 1 of the Test with Ashwin and Axar picking up seven wickets. England all-rounder Ben Stokes top-scored with 55 and returning batsman Dan Lawrence made 46. India on 🔝 Virat Kohli and Co. are No.1 in the @MRFWorldwide ICC Test Team Rankings 🔥 pic.twitter.com/uHG4q0pUlj — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × In reply, India were off to a bad start as Gill was dismissed on the very third ball. On Day 2, India were down to 80 at the loss of four wickets, when Rishabh Pant stepped in to save the day for the hosts. Pant's century and Washington Sundar's unbeaten 96 powered India to 365 on Day 3. India took a 160-run lead before being bowled out. England's batting woes continued as they were 91-6 at tea. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin reduced England to 10-2, dismissing Zak Crawley and Jonny Bairstow with successive deliveries. Bairstow fell for his third duck in four innings. That victory against England means India finish the league phase of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship with a fine view from the top of the table 🔝#INDvENG | #WTC21 pic.twitter.com/rXFiKPXdB7 — ICC (@ICC) March 6, 2021 × Dom Sibley fell for three in a bizarre manner, sweeping Axar Patel into Shubman Gill's body at short-leg with Rishabh Pant taking the catch after the ball ballooned up. Patel dismissed Ben Stokes for two before Ashwin dealt a body blow by trapping England captain Joe Root for 30. Dan Lawrence's brave 50 could not save the game for England as the hosts were bowled out 135 runs, giving an innings and 25 runs win to India. India and New Zealand will face each other in the World Test Championship at Lord's. The finals will be played to June 18-22.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: India go on top of ICC Test rankings after innings win over England

England’s winning start against India in their ICC World Test Championship series has kept alive the visiting side’s hopes of making the final of the nine-team competition.

The victory at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday has lifted England to first place and 70.2 percentage points on the points table and they’ve improved their chances of securing one of the three series results in their favour that could see them through to the final – 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0.

New Zealand have already qualified for the final winning 70.0 per cent of their matches (with no other series scheduled) while India and Australia remain in contention for the other place along with England.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-excuses-virat-kohli-assesses-indias-horror-defeat-in-chennai-against-england-362398" hreflang="en">'No excuses': Virat Kohli assesses India's horror defeat in Chennai against England</a>

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Qualification scenarios for the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> finals: 
 
India can still qualify if... 
🇮🇳 2-1 
🇮🇳 3-1 
 
England qualify if... 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 3-0 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 3-1 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 4-0 
 
Australia qualify if... 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 1-0 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 2-0 
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 2-1 
🤝 1-1 
🤝 2-2
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1359062949999050760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India, who have slipped to fourth position with 68.3 percentage points, cannot afford another loss in the four-match series and will be looking to win at least two of the remaining three matches to secure a 2-1 or 3-1 result and a place in the final. Australia will get to feature in a Trans-Tasman summit clash if the India-England series is drawn or if England win 1-0, 2-1 or 2-0.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-first-test-england-go-1-0-up-in-the-series-as-they-beat-india-by-227-runs-362394" hreflang="en">IND vs ENG, First Test: England go 1-0 up in the series as they beat India by 227 runs</a>

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A huge win over India in the first Test has propelled England to the top of the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/8AaC8XMrjr">pic.twitter.com/8AaC8XMrjr</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1359052396752633862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Pakistan’s 2-0 home win over South Africa sees them finish the series in fifth position with 43.3 percentage points, while South Africa slip to sixth position with 30.0 percentage points.

West Indies are seventh with 23.8 percentage points after their epic victory in the first Test against Bangladesh, who are last on the table and yet to win a point.

England’s winning start against India in their ICC World Test Championship series has kept alive the visiting side’s hopes of making the final of the nine-team competition.

England’s winning start against India in their ICC World Test Championship series has kept alive the visiting side’s hopes of making the final of the nine-team competition. The victory at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Tuesday has lifted England to first place and 70.2 percentage points on the points table and they’ve improved their chances of securing one of the three series results in their favour that could see them through to the final – 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0. New Zealand have already qualified for the final winning 70.0 per cent of their matches (with no other series scheduled) while India and Australia remain in contention for the other place along with England. ALSO READ: 'No excuses': Virat Kohli assesses India's horror defeat in Chennai against England Qualification scenarios for the #WTC21 finals: India can still qualify if... 🇮🇳 2-1 🇮🇳 3-1 England qualify if... 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 3-0 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 3-1 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 4-0 Australia qualify if... 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 1-0 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 2-0 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 2-1 🤝 1-1 🤝 2-2 — ICC (@ICC) February 9, 2021 × India, who have slipped to fourth position with 68.3 percentage points, cannot afford another loss in the four-match series and will be looking to win at least two of the remaining three matches to secure a 2-1 or 3-1 result and a place in the final. Australia will get to feature in a Trans-Tasman summit clash if the India-England series is drawn or if England win 1-0, 2-1 or 2-0. ALSO READ: IND vs ENG, First Test: England go 1-0 up in the series as they beat India by 227 runs A huge win over India in the first Test has propelled England to the top of the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀#WTC21 pic.twitter.com/8AaC8XMrjr — ICC (@ICC) February 9, 2021 × Pakistan’s 2-0 home win over South Africa sees them finish the series in fifth position with 43.3 percentage points, while South Africa slip to sixth position with 30.0 percentage points. West Indies are seventh with 23.8 percentage points after their epic victory in the first Test against Bangladesh, who are last on the table and yet to win a point.

ICC World Test Championship: India drop to 4th after Chennai Test; Here's updated standings

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England. Rahane while lauding New Zealand asserted that India shouldn't get complacent thinking about the&nbsp;WTC final and added that focus of the Indian team remains on the impending England series.&nbsp;

“It&nbsp;(WTC final)&nbsp;is still four months away. We are focused on the England series,” Rahane said at a virtual media interaction&nbsp;on Wednesday ahead of India's first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.&nbsp;&nbsp;

After the postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia, New Zealand became the first team to qualify for the&nbsp;inaugural&nbsp;edition of the ICC World Test Championship. While Australia and England are still in contention to feature in the summit clash, India's domination at home means the Virat Kohli-led outfit stands&nbsp;favourite&nbsp;to&nbsp;qualify&nbsp;for the final.&nbsp;

“New Zealand has been doing well and deserve to be there [in the final]. We know every&nbsp;series,&nbsp;every game is important in this WTC.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-eyes-illustrious-records-in-chennai-test-against-india-361081" hreflang="en">Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India</a>

“The series win in Australia was special but that's in the past. We are taking it one match at a time. We respect the England team. They did well in Sri Lanka, so we have to back our strengths and play good cricket as a unit."&nbsp;

Rahane's captaincy was one of the biggest talking points from India's historic success against Australia as the 32-year-old led the Indian side to perfection. However, Virat Kohli is now back with the squad and has taken over the charge as the leader&nbsp;of the ship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"He (Kohli) had to return home from Australia for personal reasons. That's why I became the skipper. I am really happy that he is back with us," Rahane said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“My job is to help Virat. A captain has too many things on his mind. As vice-captain, you have to&nbsp;visualise&nbsp;a situation, think about what can happen in the game, and if the captain asks you for suggestions, you should be ready. My job is quite easy. I take a backseat as vice-captain."&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-test-series-in-india-bigger-than-ashes-opines-matt-prior-361030" hreflang="en">Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior</a>

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💬 My job becomes easy when <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> is around: <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> 
 
🗣️🗣️ Vice-captain Rahane on his camaraderie with Captain Virat Kohli &amp; driving <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> forward 🤜🏻🤛🏻 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvENG</a> <a href="https://t.co/AW2cNYJ7RP">pic.twitter.com/AW2cNYJ7RP</a>
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When asked about team combination for the Chennai Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rahane said they will take a call after the practice session on the eve of the match.&nbsp;

&nbsp;“We will take a call on the Playing XI after our practice session tomorrow.”&nbsp;

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England.

Team India's Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane on Wednesday congratulated New Zealand for becoming the first team to qualify for the final of ICC World Test Championship, to be held on June 18-22 in England. Rahane while lauding New Zealand asserted that India shouldn't get complacent thinking about the WTC final and added that focus of the Indian team remains on the impending England series. “It (WTC final) is still four months away. We are focused on the England series,” Rahane said at a virtual media interaction on Wednesday ahead of India's first Test against England at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. After the postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia, New Zealand became the first team to qualify for the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship. While Australia and England are still in contention to feature in the summit clash, India's domination at home means the Virat Kohli-led outfit stands favourite to qualify for the final. “New Zealand has been doing well and deserve to be there [in the final]. We know every series, every game is important in this WTC. ALSO READ: Joe Root eyes illustrious records in Chennai Test against India “The series win in Australia was special but that's in the past. We are taking it one match at a time. We respect the England team. They did well in Sri Lanka, so we have to back our strengths and play good cricket as a unit." Rahane's captaincy was one of the biggest talking points from India's historic success against Australia as the 32-year-old led the Indian side to perfection. However, Virat Kohli is now back with the squad and has taken over the charge as the leader of the ship. "He (Kohli) had to return home from Australia for personal reasons. That's why I became the skipper. I am really happy that he is back with us," Rahane said. “My job is to help Virat. A captain has too many things on his mind. As vice-captain, you have to visualise a situation, think about what can happen in the game, and if the captain asks you for suggestions, you should be ready. My job is quite easy. I take a backseat as vice-captain." ALSO READ: Winning Test series in India 'bigger' than Ashes, opines Matt Prior 💬 My job becomes easy when @imVkohli is around: @ajinkyarahane88 🗣️🗣️ Vice-captain Rahane on his camaraderie with Captain Virat Kohli & driving #TeamIndia forward 🤜🏻🤛🏻 #INDvENG pic.twitter.com/AW2cNYJ7RP — BCCI (@BCCI) February 3, 2021 × When asked about team combination for the Chennai Test at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, Rahane said they will take a call after the practice session on the eve of the match. “We will take a call on the Playing XI after our practice session tomorrow.”

New Zealand deserve to be in WTC final, India focused on England series: Ajinkya Rahane

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New Zealand are currently ranked second on the ICC WTC table with a points percentage of 70 per cent, which has secured them a place in the final. They will be joined by either India, England, or Australia with the second spot being determined by the outcome of the India v England four-match Test series due to start on Friday.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

To book their place, India will have to win the series against England by 2-1, 2-0, 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0, margin. For England to qualify and join New Zealand, they will have to win the series against India by 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0 margin. Australia can still qualify for the much-anticipated ICC WTC final if the series between India and England ends up as a drawn series, or if India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 1-0, 2-1 or a 2-1 margin.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa has been postponed amid fears of COVID-19. The postponement also cuts down chances of Australia qualifying to the final of ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-south-africa-test-series-postponed-over-covid-19-threat-360853" hreflang="en">Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat</a>

The likes of Pakistan, South Africa among other Test playing nations barring India, England and Australia are also mathematically out of contention of the ICC WTC final.

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day.

The postponement of the Test series between South Africa and Australia means New Zealand have become the first team to qualify for the inaugural ICC World Test Championship final to be held in England from June 18 to 22, with June 23 booked as the reserve day. New Zealand are currently ranked second on the ICC WTC table with a points percentage of 70 per cent, which has secured them a place in the final. They will be joined by either India, England, or Australia with the second spot being determined by the outcome of the India v England four-match Test series due to start on Friday. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team To book their place, India will have to win the series against England by 2-1, 2-0, 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0, margin. For England to qualify and join New Zealand, they will have to win the series against India by 3-1, 3-0 or 4-0 margin. Australia can still qualify for the much-anticipated ICC WTC final if the series between India and England ends up as a drawn series, or if India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 1-0, 2-1 or a 2-1 margin. On Tuesday, Cricket Australia announced that their tour of South Africa has been postponed amid fears of COVID-19. The postponement also cuts down chances of Australia qualifying to the final of ICC World Test Championship. ALSO READ: Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat The likes of Pakistan, South Africa among other Test playing nations barring India, England and Australia are also mathematically out of contention of the ICC WTC final.

New Zealand first team to qualify for ICC World Test Championship final

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India.&nbsp;

The Aussies further faced points deduction for slow over-rate during Boxing Day Test, which has now come to bite back Australia. Cricket Australia has received medical advice that the team should not tour the Rainbow nation. And on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the three-Test series, due to start on March 3,&nbsp;has been called off.&nbsp;

South Africa is being hit&nbsp;severely&nbsp;by a mutant strain of the coronavirus with the country positivity rate with its testing standing at a staggering 10 per cent.&nbsp;Hence, Cricket Australia decided not to compromise on the safety and well-being of the players and staff.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-world-test-championship-final-qualification-scenario-for-each-team-360861" hreflang="en">ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team</a>

Now, India&nbsp;need&nbsp;to win two Tests and draw one of the other two Tests against England to eliminate Australia.&nbsp;

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Today we informed Cricket South Africa that we believe we have no choice but to postpone the forthcoming Qantas Tour of South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic. Full statement 👇 <a href="https://t.co/mYjqNpkYjp">pic.twitter.com/mYjqNpkYjp</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/crowd-allowed-at-50-per-cent-capacity-for-india-vs-england-2nd-test-360809" hreflang="en">Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test</a>

<h2>Cricket Australia statement:&nbsp;</h2>

“Due to the public health situation in South Africa, which includes a second wave and new variant of the virus, and following extensive due diligence with medical experts, it has become clear that travelling from Australia to South Africa at this current time poses an unacceptable level of health and safety risk to our players, support staff and the community,” said Hockley.&nbsp;

“We acknowledge the significant amount of work by CSA in planning for the tour, during which we made it clear that CA was prepared to take on additional cost and effort to make the series happen.&nbsp;

“This decision has not been made lightly and we are extremely disappointed, especially given the importance of continuing international cricket at this time, our valued relationship with CSA, and our aspirations to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

“However, we have been consistent since the start of the pandemic that the health and safety of our people is always our number one priority and unfortunately despite best efforts to agree a biosecurity plan, the risks are simply too great at this time.&nbsp;

“As difficult and disappointing a decision as this is, especially for Justin, Tim and the team, we have a duty of care to our people and their health and safety can’t be compromised.&nbsp;

“We look forward to playing the series against CSA at a date to be confirmed in due course and we send CSA and the people of South Africa our very best wishes for a successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a return to normality soon.”&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India.

Australia's tour of South Africa has been officially called off on Tuesday with the Tim Paine-led outfit likely to miss the ICC World Test Championship final spot following their 2-1 series defeat against India. The Aussies further faced points deduction for slow over-rate during Boxing Day Test, which has now come to bite back Australia. Cricket Australia has received medical advice that the team should not tour the Rainbow nation. And on Tuesday, it was confirmed that the three-Test series, due to start on March 3, has been called off. South Africa is being hit severely by a mutant strain of the coronavirus with the country positivity rate with its testing standing at a staggering 10 per cent. Hence, Cricket Australia decided not to compromise on the safety and well-being of the players and staff. ALSO READ: ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team Now, India need to win two Tests and draw one of the other two Tests against England to eliminate Australia. Today we informed Cricket South Africa that we believe we have no choice but to postpone the forthcoming Qantas Tour of South Africa due to the coronavirus pandemic. Full statement 👇 pic.twitter.com/mYjqNpkYjp — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) February 2, 2021 × ALSO READ: Crowd allowed at 50 per cent capacity for India vs England 2nd Test Cricket Australia statement: “Due to the public health situation in South Africa, which includes a second wave and new variant of the virus, and following extensive due diligence with medical experts, it has become clear that travelling from Australia to South Africa at this current time poses an unacceptable level of health and safety risk to our players, support staff and the community,” said Hockley. “We acknowledge the significant amount of work by CSA in planning for the tour, during which we made it clear that CA was prepared to take on additional cost and effort to make the series happen. “This decision has not been made lightly and we are extremely disappointed, especially given the importance of continuing international cricket at this time, our valued relationship with CSA, and our aspirations to compete in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship. “However, we have been consistent since the start of the pandemic that the health and safety of our people is always our number one priority and unfortunately despite best efforts to agree a biosecurity plan, the risks are simply too great at this time. “As difficult and disappointing a decision as this is, especially for Justin, Tim and the team, we have a duty of care to our people and their health and safety can’t be compromised. “We look forward to playing the series against CSA at a date to be confirmed in due course and we send CSA and the people of South Africa our very best wishes for a successful rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine and a return to normality soon.”

Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat

The latest postponement of the Test series between Australia and South Africa have shaken up the ICC World Test Championship scenario. While&nbsp;India and New Zealand are the first and second teams in the ICC WTC standings, Australia had a chance to qualify for the summit clash had their tour of South Africa gone ahead. However, now Australia's chances stand slim given India's impeccable record at home, where they will host England for a four-Test series starting from February 5.&nbsp;

While England can still qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final, New Zealand are all set to feature in the grand finale of the inaugural edition of the competition, reported to be played at the Lord's from June 18-22.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistan and South Africa are already out of the ICC WTC final race.

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{642d846a-2411-432e-8dde-9c375837a222}{72}" paraid="1814531257" >Australia can still qualify for ICC World Test Championship final</h2>

Australia can also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final if the series between India and England ends up as a draw, India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 2-0, 2-1 margin.&nbsp;&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-vs-south-africa-test-series-postponed-over-covid-19-threat-360853" hreflang="en">Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{855b7ad7-81e4-40d2-8210-c74dbda3d94d}{226}" paraid="232368081" >What England need to do in order to qualify for ICC WTC?</h2>

For England to qualify, they have to win the series against India by 3-0, 3-1 or 4-0. But given India's great record at home, the odds are firmly stacked against the Joe Root-led outfit.&nbsp;

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{90e445b7-be75-48ac-84e1-024f0f5ef126}{155}" paraid="1037989349" >India hot favourites to qualify</h2>

India, now&nbsp;favourites&nbsp;to qualify to the ICC WTC final, will have to win by at least 2-1 in a bid to feature in the summit clash.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-eye-first-test-series-win-over-south-africa-in-17-years-360794" hreflang="en">Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years</a>

<h2 lang="EN-US" paraeid="{18bdcf58-725e-496e-bd34-2afb0beb103d}{47}" paraid="1157906843" >New Zealand - first team to qualify for ICC WTC final</h2>

However, with New Zealand's ICC WTC cycle over, the Kiwis are going to the Lord's to play the final of ICC World Test Championship as they become the first team to qualify for the final of the showpiece event.

<img alt="ICC World Test Championship points table" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b4745058-e7d2-44c7-869d-87a881dc6f5c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ICC.JPG" />

The final of ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played at the Lord's from June 10 but according to reports, it will now be played between June 18-22 at the same venue with a reserve day booked as well.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The latest postponement of the Test series between Australia and South Africa have shaken up the ICC World Test Championship scenario. While India and New Zealand are the first and second teams in the ICC WTC standings, Australia had a chance to qualify for the summit clash had their tour of South Africa gone ahead.

The latest postponement of the Test series between Australia and South Africa have shaken up the ICC World Test Championship scenario. While India and New Zealand are the first and second teams in the ICC WTC standings, Australia had a chance to qualify for the summit clash had their tour of South Africa gone ahead. However, now Australia's chances stand slim given India's impeccable record at home, where they will host England for a four-Test series starting from February 5. While England can still qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final, New Zealand are all set to feature in the grand finale of the inaugural edition of the competition, reported to be played at the Lord's from June 18-22. Pakistan and South Africa are already out of the ICC WTC final race. Australia can still qualify for ICC World Test Championship final Australia can also qualify for the ICC World Test Championship final if the series between India and England ends up as a draw, India win the series 1-0 or England win it by 2-0, 2-1 margin. ALSO READ: Australia vs South Africa Test series postponed over COVID-19 threat What England need to do in order to qualify for ICC WTC? For England to qualify, they have to win the series against India by 3-0, 3-1 or 4-0. But given India's great record at home, the odds are firmly stacked against the Joe Root-led outfit. India hot favourites to qualify India, now favourites to qualify to the ICC WTC final, will have to win by at least 2-1 in a bid to feature in the summit clash. ALSO READ: Pakistan eye first Test series win over South Africa in 17 years New Zealand - first team to qualify for ICC WTC final However, with New Zealand's ICC WTC cycle over, the Kiwis are going to the Lord's to play the final of ICC World Test Championship as they become the first team to qualify for the final of the showpiece event. The final of ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played at the Lord's from June 10 but according to reports, it will now be played between June 18-22 at the same venue with a reserve day booked as well.

ICC World Test Championship final: Qualification scenario for each team

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground.&nbsp;

According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final&nbsp;–&nbsp;dates&nbsp;yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-defeat-sri-lanka-by-six-wickets-in-galle-win-series-2-0-359231" hreflang="en">England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0</a>

India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC.&nbsp;

In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the&nbsp;percentage of win points.&nbsp;

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With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZoliydObpd">pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd</a>
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ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-career-hit-a-low-after-world-cup-rishabh-pant-reflects-back-on-struggling-phase-359183" hreflang="en">'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase</a>

On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face&nbsp;New Zealand&nbsp;in a two-Test series from June 2.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,”&nbsp;Indian captain Virat Kohli&nbsp;had said&nbsp;heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.&nbsp;

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day.

The much-awaited final of the inaugural edition of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) has been shifted to June 18 to June 22 with June 23 booked as a reserve day. The summit clash of the ICC World Test Championship was originally scheduled to be played from June 10-14 at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. According to ANI, the shift from the original scheduled was done keeping in mind the proximity between World Test Championship final and the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021 final – dates yet to be officially announced - and the quarantine period that players might have to go through amid the COVID-19 pandemic. India and New Zealand continue to sit at the top two spots in the WTC standings respectively with England closing in on third-placed Australia with a 2-0 series win against Sri Lanka. ALSO READ: England defeat Sri Lanka by six wickets in Galle, win series 2-0 India will be playing a home series against England as part of WTC whereas Australia will be taking on South Africa in what will be a must-win series for Tim Paine and Co if they wish to play in the finals of WTC. In 2019, the ICC changed the point-rating system due to the postponement of many series because of COVID-19 pandemic. The system has been revised to rank teams based on the percentage of win points. With a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England are now only 0.5% behind Australia in the ICC World Test Championship standings 👀#WTC21 pic.twitter.com/ZoliydObpd — ICC (@ICC) January 25, 2021 × ALSO READ: 'My career hit a low after World Cup': Rishabh Pant reflects back on struggling phase On Monday, ECB confirmed that England will face New Zealand in a two-Test series from June 2. “I think Test Championship, as an ICC tournament, should be right up there. All the other tournaments, for me, start under that. This is going to be the biggest of them all. Every team wants to make it to the final at Lord’s. And we are not any different. We want those points and make sure that we qualify as early as we can, and be in that frame of mind to hopefully win that,” Indian captain Virat Kohli had said heaping praise on Test cricket and ICC WTC.

ICC World Test Championship final postponed, new dates revealed!

New Zealand on Wednesday pipped India for second spot in the ICC World Test Championship after the Kiwis defeated Pakistan by 101 runs in the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. While Australia continue to lead the WTC points table, New Zealand now hold the second position with India slipping down to the third spot in the standings.&nbsp;

The rules of ICC World Test Championship were revised after it was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the new structure, the ICC WTC standings are now determined using percentage of points garnered by the teams. Hence, India, despite having more points than Australia and New Zealand are sitting below the two sides in the ICC World Test Championship points table.&nbsp;

According to the latest ICC World Test Championship points table, Australia have the best points percentage with 0.77 and New Zealand have 0.75 to their name. Whereas India have a points percentage of 0.72 followed by England at 0.61.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-will-pucovski-return-to-australian-squad-vs-india-joe-burns-dropped-353343" hreflang="en">David Warner, Will Pucovski return to Australian squad vs India; Joe Burns dropped</a>

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New Zealand keep themselves in contention of making it to the final of the ICC World Test Championship 🙌 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC21?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC21</a> standings table after the first <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NZvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NZvPAK</a> Test 👇 <a href="https://t.co/IZnHHIPT0S">pic.twitter.com/IZnHHIPT0S</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1344177313152430083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 30, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The latest structure was adopted after many bilateral series, under the ICC World Test Championship, were postponed or cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to the format of ICC WTC, a total of 120 points are up for grabs in a particular series. The points of the match are calculated on the basis of a number of matches in a series.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/icc-announces-decade-awards-from-kohli-smith-to-perry-heres-complete-list-of-winners-352996" hreflang="en">ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners</a>

With the final of ICC World Test Championship is scheduled to take place in July 2021 at the iconic Lord’s in England. However, there are still a few series to be played before the final as the participating teams gear up for a final push to play in the summit clash.&nbsp;

New Zealand on Wednesday pipped India for second spot in the ICC World Test Championship after the Kiwis defeated Pakistan by 101 runs in the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday.

New Zealand on Wednesday pipped India for second spot in the ICC World Test Championship after the Kiwis defeated Pakistan by 101 runs in the Boxing Day Test on Wednesday. While Australia continue to lead the WTC points table, New Zealand now hold the second position with India slipping down to the third spot in the standings. The rules of ICC World Test Championship were revised after it was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the new structure, the ICC WTC standings are now determined using percentage of points garnered by the teams. Hence, India, despite having more points than Australia and New Zealand are sitting below the two sides in the ICC World Test Championship points table. According to the latest ICC World Test Championship points table, Australia have the best points percentage with 0.77 and New Zealand have 0.75 to their name. Whereas India have a points percentage of 0.72 followed by England at 0.61. ALSO READ: David Warner, Will Pucovski return to Australian squad vs India; Joe Burns dropped New Zealand keep themselves in contention of making it to the final of the ICC World Test Championship 🙌 The #WTC21 standings table after the first #NZvPAK Test 👇 pic.twitter.com/IZnHHIPT0S — ICC (@ICC) December 30, 2020 × The latest structure was adopted after many bilateral series, under the ICC World Test Championship, were postponed or cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the format of ICC WTC, a total of 120 points are up for grabs in a particular series. The points of the match are calculated on the basis of a number of matches in a series. ALSO READ: ICC announces Decade Awards: From Kohli, Smith to Perry - Here's complete list of winners With the final of ICC World Test Championship is scheduled to take place in July 2021 at the iconic Lord’s in England. However, there are still a few series to be played before the final as the participating teams gear up for a final push to play in the summit clash.

New Zealand pip India for second spot in ICC World Test Championship points table

India will look to close the gap with table-toppers Australia in the ICC World Test Championship points table after their first pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Thursday.

India are in third place in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's Test Team Rankings with 114 rating points, whilst Australia top the rankings with 116.46 rating points. New Zealand follow closely in second with 116.37 rating points.

New Zealand are very close to reaching the ICC World Test Championship final in 2021 after securing back-to-back innings victories against the West Indies. India will feel the pressure as the race to the World Test Championship final heats up.

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Australia and India will fight it out in a four-Test series as the hosts look to build on their narrow lead at the top of the table. If New Zealand overcome Pakistan 2-0 in the two-Test series which starts on 26 December, they will finish on 420 points from five series.

That will leave India needing five wins or four wins and three draws out of their last eight Tests, which include facing Australia away and hosting England for a four-Test series beginning in February 2021. Depending on how India's series against Australia goes and New Zealand's series against Pakistan goes, Australia could build their lead at number one or make way for New Zealand at the top.

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The factor that determines the final placings is now percentage points, following a change to the points system announced earlier, owing to the disruption of international cricket due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India will look to close the gap with table-toppers Australia in the ICC World Test Championship points table after their first pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Thursday.

India will look to close the gap with table-toppers Australia in the ICC World Test Championship points table after their first pink-ball Test in Adelaide on Thursday. India are in third place in the MRF Tyres ICC Men's Test Team Rankings with 114 rating points, whilst Australia top the rankings with 116.46 rating points. New Zealand follow closely in second with 116.37 rating points. New Zealand are very close to reaching the ICC World Test Championship final in 2021 after securing back-to-back innings victories against the West Indies. India will feel the pressure as the race to the World Test Championship final heats up. ALSO READ: Warne vs Tendulkar, 'Monkeygate': 5 classic Australia vs India encounters Australia and India will fight it out in a four-Test series as the hosts look to build on their narrow lead at the top of the table. If New Zealand overcome Pakistan 2-0 in the two-Test series which starts on 26 December, they will finish on 420 points from five series. That will leave India needing five wins or four wins and three draws out of their last eight Tests, which include facing Australia away and hosting England for a four-Test series beginning in February 2021. Depending on how India's series against Australia goes and New Zealand's series against Pakistan goes, Australia could build their lead at number one or make way for New Zealand at the top. ALSO READ: From taking the knee to joining protests: Athletes who contributed to 'Black Lives Matter' movement The factor that determines the final placings is now percentage points, following a change to the points system announced earlier, owing to the disruption of international cricket due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Australia look to retain top spot in the ICC World Test Championship as the race to the final heats up

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship.&nbsp;

Unlike other tournaments, the ICC World Test Championship is to be played in two years with every Test-playing nation playing home and away series as per the schedule. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left everything shattered. While there has been no confirmation on how the ICC is planning to conduct the event now, an ICC spokesperson has said that the apex cricketing body is ‘considering the options available’ relating to the World Test Championship while adding ‘no decisions have been taken’ so far.&nbsp;

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"At present, the ICC is considering the options available to us regarding the World Test Championship and no decisions have been taken," the ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying by an Australian daily.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, there have been doubts over the Asia Cup 2020, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan – as of now – in the month of September. While it is impossible for India to participate in the event given it is being held in Pakistan, an ACC meeting was scheduled to decide a neutral venue for the event.

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However, with the COVID-19 spreading like a wildfire, the meeting has been postponed and no final call has been taken in relation to the schedule and venue for the tournament. The likes of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participate&nbsp;in the Asia Cup.

Even the BCCI has been seeming less optimistic about conducting the IPL with India going under lockdown for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had ruled out a postponed version of IPL 2020.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship.

All the major sporting tournaments and sporting events have been cancelled or postponed, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic. While all eyes are on the future Indian Premier League (IPL) and ICC T20 World Cup 2020, another major cricketing event that has been hit by the novel coronavirus is the ICC World Test Championship. Unlike other tournaments, the ICC World Test Championship is to be played in two years with every Test-playing nation playing home and away series as per the schedule. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has left everything shattered. While there has been no confirmation on how the ICC is planning to conduct the event now, an ICC spokesperson has said that the apex cricketing body is ‘considering the options available’ relating to the World Test Championship while adding ‘no decisions have been taken’ so far. ALSO READ: Jos Buttler hoping for shortened IPL in wake of COVID-19 pandemic "At present, the ICC is considering the options available to us regarding the World Test Championship and no decisions have been taken," the ICC spokesperson was quoted as saying by an Australian daily. Meanwhile, there have been doubts over the Asia Cup 2020, which is scheduled to be held in Pakistan – as of now – in the month of September. While it is impossible for India to participate in the event given it is being held in Pakistan, an ACC meeting was scheduled to decide a neutral venue for the event. ALSO READ: Mithali Raj wants women's IPL next year, says BCCI shouldn't wait forever However, with the COVID-19 spreading like a wildfire, the meeting has been postponed and no final call has been taken in relation to the schedule and venue for the tournament. The likes of India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan and Bangladesh participate in the Asia Cup. Even the BCCI has been seeming less optimistic about conducting the IPL with India going under lockdown for 21 days to curb the spread of COVID-19. Earlier, BCCI president Sourav Ganguly had ruled out a postponed version of IPL 2020.

'It is considering...' - ICC spokesperson reveals fate of World Test Championship

Australia's run-machine Steve Smith has edged past Indian captain Virat Kohli to become the best Test batsman in the world, based on the International Cricket Council's (ICC) rankings.

Kohli's side moved to the top of the new ICC World Test Championship table with a 2-0 series sweep against West Indies. But his own first-ball duck in the second innings at Sabina Park meant he slipped to the second spot in the men's individual ranking with 903 points.

Smith leads Kohli by one point but will have a chance to consolidate his position in the fourth Ashes Test against England starting on Wednesday at Old Trafford, where he returns after recovering from a concussion.

Former captain Smith has not held top spot in the rankings since December 2015. In August last year, while Smith was serving a 12-month ban over a ball-tampering scandal, Kohli overtook him in the standings.

The Australian number four has since made a remarkable return to the longest format, with twin hundreds in the first Ashes Test in Birmingham.

He followed that up with a 92 at Lord's before being felled by a short ball from England fast bowler Jofra Archer.

Australia now boast both the number one Test batsman and bowler in the world, with Pat Cummins leading the bowling charts since February.

It is the first time the Australians have topped the charts with both bat and ball since March 2006, when Ricky Ponting and Glenn McGrath topped the respective rankings.

Kohli's next opportunity to respond will be in a home Test series against South Africa starting on Oct. 2.

New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson retains third spot, while India's Ajinkya Rahane returned to the top 10, rising four places to seventh.

After finishing the Caribbean series with 13 wickets at an impressive average of 9.23, Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah rose four places to number three in the Test rankings for bowlers, with a career-best 835 rating points.

The 25-year-old is now only behind Cummins and South Africa's Kagiso Rabada.

Already occupying top spot in the Test rankings of all-rounders, West Indies captain Jason Holder rose seven places in the bowling list to join England's James Anderson in fourth position.

England's Ben Stokes remained in second place in the all-rounder ranking after his match-winning second-innings performance in the third Ashes Test at Headingley, behind Holder and ahead of Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan in third.

Australia's run-machine Steve Smith has edged past Indian captain Virat Kohli to become the best Test batsman in the world, based on the International Cricket Council's (ICC) rankings.

Australia's run-machine Steve Smith has edged past Indian captain Virat Kohli to become the best Test batsman in the world, based on the International Cricket Council's (ICC) rankings. Kohli's side moved to the top of the new ICC World Test Championship table with a 2-0 series sweep against West Indies. But his own first-ball duck in the second innings at Sabina Park meant he slipped to the second spot in the men's individual ranking with 903 points. Smith leads Kohli by one point but will have a chance to consolidate his position in the fourth Ashes Test against England starting on Wednesday at Old Trafford, where he returns after recovering from a concussion. Former captain Smith has not held top spot in the rankings since December 2015. In August last year, while Smith was serving a 12-month ban over a ball-tampering scandal, Kohli overtook him in the standings. The Australian number four has since made a remarkable return to the longest format, with twin hundreds in the first Ashes Test in Birmingham. He followed that up with a 92 at Lord's before being felled by a short ball from England fast bowler Jofra Archer. Australia now boast both the number one Test batsman and bowler in the world, with Pat Cummins leading the bowling charts since February. It is the first time the Australians have topped the charts with both bat and ball since March 2006, when Ricky Ponting and Glenn McGrath topped the respective rankings. Kohli's next opportunity to respond will be in a home Test series against South Africa starting on Oct. 2. New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson retains third spot, while India's Ajinkya Rahane returned to the top 10, rising four places to seventh. After finishing the Caribbean series with 13 wickets at an impressive average of 9.23, Indian paceman Jasprit Bumrah rose four places to number three in the Test rankings for bowlers, with a career-best 835 rating points. The 25-year-old is now only behind Cummins and South Africa's Kagiso Rabada. Already occupying top spot in the Test rankings of all-rounders, West Indies captain Jason Holder rose seven places in the bowling list to join England's James Anderson in fourth position. England's Ben Stokes remained in second place in the all-rounder ranking after his match-winning second-innings performance in the third Ashes Test at Headingley, behind Holder and ahead of Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan in third.

Steve Smith overtakes Virat Kohli to reclaim No.1 spot in Test rankings

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said the concept of ICC World Test Championship will bring more purpose to the Test matches and the format is going to be much more competitive.&nbsp;

"The games are going to be much more competitive and it brings a lot of purpose to the Test matches you play," said Kohli at a discussion during the CWI/WIPA awards night. Indian team, which is currently on a tour of West Indies, were guests at that event.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"It's the right move and the absolute right time," Kohli added.

In the Championship, a total of 71 Test matches will be played across 27 series over a period of two years.&nbsp;

The top two teams will then contest in the ICC World Test Championship final in June 2021 in the UK.&nbsp;

"People have been talking about Test cricket not being relevant or dying down. For me, the competition has gone up two-fold the last couple of years," Kohli further added.&nbsp;

"It's up to the players to take the challenge and go for victories," he added.&nbsp;

"That's going to be the essence of this Test championship as well. There will hardly be any boring draws, there will be exciting draws, because everyone will want those extra points," said the Indian captain.&nbsp;

"Batsmanship will always be hard at the Test level, but even harder now with the Championship where every decision you make counts in the larger scheme of things."&nbsp;

After winning both T20I and ODI series, India will now compete against West Indies for a two-match Test series, first match starting from August 22.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said the concept of ICC World Test Championship will bring more purpose to the Test matches and the format is going to be much more competitive.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli said the concept of ICC World Test Championship will bring more purpose to the Test matches and the format is going to be much more competitive. "The games are going to be much more competitive and it brings a lot of purpose to the Test matches you play," said Kohli at a discussion during the CWI/WIPA awards night. Indian team, which is currently on a tour of West Indies, were guests at that event. "It's the right move and the absolute right time," Kohli added. In the Championship, a total of 71 Test matches will be played across 27 series over a period of two years. The top two teams will then contest in the ICC World Test Championship final in June 2021 in the UK. "People have been talking about Test cricket not being relevant or dying down. For me, the competition has gone up two-fold the last couple of years," Kohli further added. "It's up to the players to take the challenge and go for victories," he added. "That's going to be the essence of this Test championship as well. There will hardly be any boring draws, there will be exciting draws, because everyone will want those extra points," said the Indian captain. "Batsmanship will always be hard at the Test level, but even harder now with the Championship where every decision you make counts in the larger scheme of things." After winning both T20I and ODI series, India will now compete against West Indies for a two-match Test series, first match starting from August 22.

World Test Championship is a right move taken at right time, feels Virat Kohli

Inzamam-ul-Haq on Wednesday announced his decision to step down as Pakistan's chief selector when his contract expires on July 31.

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam, who was appointed to the role in April 2016, oversaw a period which included Pakistan's victory in the Champions Trophy two years ago.

Inzamam's final assignment was to select the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-wanted-to-commit-suicide-mickey-arthur-after-pakistans-defeat-against-india-230449&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwig5svJ_bvjAhUjH48KHeAuCMQQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2RI3rpG6J19qLg2ABraZd8">Pakistan </a>squad for the World Cup, where the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led team finished fifth in the group stage and failed to qualify for the semi-finals.

"After more than three years as chair of the Pakistan men's selection committee, I have decided not to seek a renewal of my contract," the 49-year-old Inzamam said in a statement.

"With the ICC World Test Championship, due to get underway in September, the ICC T20 World Cup in 2020 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, I believe it is the right time for the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohammad-amir-wahab-riaz-named-in-pakistans-world-cup-squad-220106&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjo_cuc_bvjAhV68XMBHREOCy0QFjAFegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2zU4zHLL-GwBzoGwUGvp6T">Pakistan Cricket Board</a> to appoint a new chief selector who can bring new ideas and fresh thinking," Inzamam said.

During Inzamam's tenure, players such as Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Abbas, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi and Usman Shinwari made their international debuts, while Babar Azam established himself as Pakistan's batting mainstay across all three formats of the game.

"It has been a pleasure to see these players grow and make names for themselves in international cricket," Inzamam added.

"I will follow their progress with interest because I firmly believe these players have all the ingredients to take the Pakistan cricket team to greater heights," said&nbsp;Inzamam.

Inzamam-ul-Haq on Wednesday announced his decision to step down as Pakistan's chief selector when his contract expires on July 31. Former Pakistan captain Inzamam, who was appointed to the role in April 2016, oversaw a period which included Pakistan's victory in the Champions Trophy two years ago.

Inzamam-ul-Haq on Wednesday announced his decision to step down as Pakistan's chief selector when his contract expires on July 31. Former Pakistan captain Inzamam, who was appointed to the role in April 2016, oversaw a period which included Pakistan's victory in the Champions Trophy two years ago. Inzamam's final assignment was to select the Pakistan squad for the World Cup, where the Sarfaraz Ahmed-led team finished fifth in the group stage and failed to qualify for the semi-finals. "After more than three years as chair of the Pakistan men's selection committee, I have decided not to seek a renewal of my contract," the 49-year-old Inzamam said in a statement. "With the ICC World Test Championship, due to get underway in September, the ICC T20 World Cup in 2020 and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, I believe it is the right time for the Pakistan Cricket Board to appoint a new chief selector who can bring new ideas and fresh thinking," Inzamam said. During Inzamam's tenure, players such as Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Ali, Imam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Abbas, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi and Usman Shinwari made their international debuts, while Babar Azam established himself as Pakistan's batting mainstay across all three formats of the game. "It has been a pleasure to see these players grow and make names for themselves in international cricket," Inzamam added. "I will follow their progress with interest because I firmly believe these players have all the ingredients to take the Pakistan cricket team to greater heights," said Inzamam.

Inzamam-ul-Haq steps down as Pakistan Cricket Board's chief selector

India will tour West Indies to begin its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/world-cup-heavy-rain-forecast-ahead-of-india-vs-new-zealand-match-226204">ICC</a> World Test Championship campaign, starting August 22 across two venues.

The five-week tour will see the teams competing in three T20Is and as many ODIs before testing themselves in two Test matches from August 22 to 26 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua and from August 30 to September 3 at Sabina Park in Jamaica.

The two Tests open the new ICC World Test Championship, which will be played over the next two years.&nbsp;

It has been introduced to give greater context and competition in the ultimate test of the game, combining strategy, skill and endurance.

"The West Indies and India have a long and colourful rivalry, and the series will bring more thrilling competition across every format of the game. We'll be seeing some of the World's best players go head to head in T20Is, ODIs and then in the new World Test Championship. West Indies fans, young and old, will have the opportunity to see some incredible cricket," said Cricket West Indies (CWI) Chief Executive Officer, Johnny Grave in a statement.

The first two T20I matches will be played on August 3 and 4, respectively, at the Broward County Stadium in the city of Lauderhill in Florida, USA.

The third T20I will be played on August 6 at the National Stadium in Guyana, where the series also transitions to the 50-over format with the first ODI taking place on August 8, the first time in three decades the two sides will contest in an ODI in the South American nation.&nbsp;

The ODI series will conclude at the Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad where teams will meet for second and third <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-singh-deserved-a-better-farewell-says-india-vice-captain-rohit-sharma-226179">ODI </a>on August 11 and 14, respectively.

"We're excited to bring two more T20Is to Florida, giving the West Indies diaspora in North America the opportunity to watch the team play 'live' and in person," said CWI Commercial, Marketing and Communications Director, Dominic Warne.

"This continues our plans of growing our audience and the game's appeal in North America to increase participation and investment back into the West Indies. The series will provide a chance for a growing audience in the United States, who follow the West Indies, to experience the fast-paced action of the T20 format," Warne added.&nbsp;

India will tour West Indies to begin its ICC World Test Championship campaign, starting August 22 across two venues. The five-week tour will see the teams competing in three T20Is and as many ODIs before testing themselves in two Test matches from August 22 to 26 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua and from August 30 to September 3 at Sabina Park in Jamaica.

India will tour West Indies to begin its ICC World Test Championship campaign, starting August 22 across two venues. The five-week tour will see the teams competing in three T20Is and as many ODIs before testing themselves in two Test matches from August 22 to 26 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua and from August 30 to September 3 at Sabina Park in Jamaica. The two Tests open the new ICC World Test Championship, which will be played over the next two years. It has been introduced to give greater context and competition in the ultimate test of the game, combining strategy, skill and endurance. "The West Indies and India have a long and colourful rivalry, and the series will bring more thrilling competition across every format of the game. We'll be seeing some of the World's best players go head to head in T20Is, ODIs and then in the new World Test Championship. West Indies fans, young and old, will have the opportunity to see some incredible cricket," said Cricket West Indies (CWI) Chief Executive Officer, Johnny Grave in a statement. The first two T20I matches will be played on August 3 and 4, respectively, at the Broward County Stadium in the city of Lauderhill in Florida, USA. The third T20I will be played on August 6 at the National Stadium in Guyana, where the series also transitions to the 50-over format with the first ODI taking place on August 8, the first time in three decades the two sides will contest in an ODI in the South American nation. The ODI series will conclude at the Queen's Park Oval in Trinidad where teams will meet for second and third ODI on August 11 and 14, respectively. "We're excited to bring two more T20Is to Florida, giving the West Indies diaspora in North America the opportunity to watch the team play 'live' and in person," said CWI Commercial, Marketing and Communications Director, Dominic Warne. "This continues our plans of growing our audience and the game's appeal in North America to increase participation and investment back into the West Indies. The series will provide a chance for a growing audience in the United States, who follow the West Indies, to experience the fast-paced action of the T20 format," Warne added.

India to begin ICC World Test Championship against West Indies

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