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The record-loss to England at Edgbaston, Birmingham did not only shatter India’s dreams of winning the historic Test series on English soil but cost them two crucial points in the ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23 cycle as well. The Indian team has been docked two points for maintaining slow over-rate in the rescheduled Test. In addition, the players have been fined 40 per cent of their match fee.
The penalty is as per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. After time allowances, Indian bowlers fell two overs short which led to the sanction. Earlier, India lost three more points due to slow over-rate as well in the current cycle.
The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Aleem Dar and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Erasmus and fourth umpire Alex Wharf. Later, the sanction was imposed by David Boon of Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees.
India’s chances of reaching WTC final dented
After the series draw and two penalty points, India slipped to fourth place on WTC points table. With 75 points and 52.38 winning percentage, India are just below Babar Azam-led Pakistan. India's arch-rivals have 52.38 win percentage with three wins in bag.
The standings are led by Australia (77.78 win percentage) followed by South Africa (71.43 win percentage).
The record-breaking seven-wicket loss dented India’s chances of making it into the final of WTC 2021-23.
Upcoming Test series for Asian giants
India are yet to play two Tests in Bangladesh later this year. It will be followed by a four-Test series at home against Australia next year. India will need to win each of the six Tests in sub-continent conditions to strengthen their chances of making it to their second consecutive WTC final.
On the other hand, Pakistan have to play New Zealand and England at home. Also, they will tour Sri Lanka.
