Race to WTC Final: Ben Stokes takes a dig at ICC after England, NZ lose points; can India capitalise?

The first Test between England and New Zealand in the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle in Christchurch ended with an 8-wicket victory for the English side. However, the win was short lived as ICC sanctioned both teams as they were found three overs short of the required target, considering time allowances.

As per the regulations, each team was docked one point for every over they fell short, along with a 15% fine on their match fees. The penalty, which resulted in both teams losing three crucial WTC points, has further complicated the already fierce race for a spot in the WTC final.

Ben Stokes takes a shot at ICC:

England Test captain Ben Stokes, unhappy with what just happened, took a shot at the International Cricket Council (ICC) after his team was penalised for a slow over-rate. Stokes who is never shy to speak his mind, took to Instagram to express his frustration and wrote, "Good on you ICC," accompanied by three shrugging emojis. "Finished the game with 10 hours of play still left".

Ben Stokes has a point. pic.twitter.com/veKBrLCESQ

¡ª Jatin Paranjape (@jats72) December 4, 2024

What did the sanctions do for race of WTC Final:

The ICC's sanctions have added more intensity to the already fierce race for the WTC final. The loss of three points for both New Zealand and England has affected their standings. While England, already out of contention for next year's final, sits in sixth place with a points percentage of 42.50, having won 10 and lost 9 of their 20 Tests, their victory in Christchurch was notable.

How other teams stand?

New Zealand: The Kiwis must win every remaining match and rely on other teams' mistakes, as their 47.92 percentage points isn't enough on their own.

Sri Lanka: Despite a tough loss against South Africa, Sri Lanka still has a chance, but they will need to beat Australia convincingly and other results will need to favor them.

Australia: The Aussies have six Tests matches left and the defending champions will need at least four wins to stay in contention.

South Africa: The Proteas are currently sitting in the second spot and will only need to continue winning to secure their spot at Lord's.

India's chances of qualifying:

The Men in Blue currently sit at the top spot with 61.11 percentage points to their name. Following their remarkable win over Australia in Perth, they are back in the race, but they will need to win at least three more games with four Border-Gavaskar Trophy matches left. India needs to keep winning and not rely on other results.

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