World Test Championship Secrets Revealed: Why South Africa's Luck and Flawed Points System Stir Controversy! - Best11.in

 

The World Test Championship, introduced by the ICC to make Test cricket more exciting, has enhanced the thrill of Test series through its points table. Finalists are determined based on Test performance over a two-year period, starting in 2019. New Zealand won in 2021, and Australia in 2023.

 In the latest championship final, South Africa and Australia face off at Lord's. However, examining the points table reveals some unscientific aspects. Each team must play six Test series within the two-year cycle, three at home and three away. While all teams play six series, the number of matches varies. For clarity, top teams like India, England, and Australia often play five-match Test series against each other, resulting in more matches played. In contrast, South Africa’s six series consist of only two matches each, totaling 12 matches. England played 22 matches, while India and Australia played 19 each. South Africa’s away matches were in Bangladesh and the West Indies, which worked in their favor, though they lost a series in New Zealand. 

Winning a five-match series or a two-match series yields the same points, which depends on each country’s priorities, leading to variations in the number of matches played. For example, England, with a preference for Test cricket, played 22 matches, winning 11 but losing 22 points due to penalties, such as over-rate issues. Despite leading the points table, their win percentage is 45%. South Africa, playing only 12 matches, won eight, achieving a 69% win percentage. The points table is determined by win percentage. South Africa benefited from not playing series in strongholds like India, Australia, or England. Criticism also arises because the championship final is always held in England, justified by the ICC as ideal due to suitable June weather and accessibility. 

However, a team performing well over the two-year cycle can be knocked out due to a poor final performance, sparking criticism. India, despite strong performances, lost to New Zealand in 2021 and Australia in 2023. This has led to demands, including from former Indian captain Virat Kohli, for the final to be a series rather than a single match. While the South African team is often associated with misfortune, this time, luck was on their side.