New Zealand boost WTC final hopes with series win over England

New Zealand strengthened their bid for a place in the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) final after beating England by 160 runs in the third Test at Trent Bridge. The Black Caps sealed the three-match series 2-1 and made significant gains in the latest WTC standings.

Chasing 373 on the final day, England struggled against New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack and were bowled out for 212. Zak Foulkes led the way with three wickets, while Nathan Smith and Mitchell Santner claimed two each. Daryl Mitchell’s unbeaten century in the second innings laid the foundation for New Zealand’s match-winning total and earned widespread praise.

New Zealand close the gap in WTC standings

The victory lifted New Zealand’s points percentage (PCT) to 72.22, keeping them third in the World Test Championship table. They now sit just behind second-placed South Africa, who have a PCT of 75.00, while Australia continue to lead the standings with 87.50.

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England remained seventh after the defeat, with their PCT dropping to 24.36. The loss leaves them with plenty of ground to make up if they are to stay in contention for a place in the WTC final.

Historic series triumph in England

The series win was a memorable one for New Zealand. It marked only their fourth Test series victory in England and their first triumph in a three-match series there since 1999.

Despite missing several experienced players, the visitors delivered consistent performances throughout the series. Their bowlers stepped up in key moments, while the batting unit produced crucial contributions when it mattered most.

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The result also underlined New Zealand’s strong start to the new WTC cycle. With valuable points already secured, they have firmly established themselves as one of the early contenders for a place in the championship final.

For England, the defeat serves as another setback in the race for the WTC final. Ben Stokes’ side will now need improved performances in the remaining matches of the cycle to climb the standings and keep their qualification hopes alive.