How Australia’s Win Over SA in Durban Impacted India in WTC Standings? Explained

Australia strengthened their position at the top of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 standings after defeating defending champions South Africa by 214 runs in the first Test at Kingsmead, Durban, on Tuesday, October 13.

The result gave Pat Cummins and his team a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, dealing a blow to South Africa’s campaign. Meanwhile, India remain fifth in the standings and face an uphill battle to qualify for the WTC final. Australia’s victory also widened the gap between the leading teams and the chasing pack. Below, we will find the WTC table after SA vs AUS 1st Test in Durban.

How Australia’s Win Impacted India?

Australia win vs SA has earned them 12 WTC points, taking their tally to 108 points from 11 Tests, with a points percentage (PCT) of 81.82%. South Africa remain on 36 points, but their PCT has dropped from 75% to 60%.

Coming to Australia Test win impact on India, the Men in Blue remain fifth with 68 points from 11 Tests and a PCT of 51.52%. New Zealand move ahead of South Africa in the WTC standings, while Bangladesh remain fourth.

India’s position is unchanged, but the result highlights the challenge facing them in the race for the final. They must collect points consistently in their remaining fixtures to improve their qualification prospects.

What India Need To Do To Qualify For WTC Final?

India have a difficult road ahead to qualify for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 final after slipping to fifth in the standings with 68 points and a points percentage (PCT) of 51.52%.

Shubman Gill and Co. have seven Tests remaining in the cycle, including a two-match away series against New Zealand in November 2026 and a five-match home series against Australia in January-March 2027.

The Men in Blue must aim to win at least five Tests and secure a draw to push their points percentage above 60%, although this may not guarantee qualification. Six victories would significantly strengthen their chances.

India must also hope that the best cricket teams in the world like Australia, New Zealand and South Africa drop points in their remaining fixtures. With the top two teams qualifying for the final, India cannot afford further setbacks and must deliver consistently in their remaining matches.