Can New Zealand Overcome Their Loss to England and Make the WTC 2025 Final?
Despite defeating India 3-0 at their backyard, the Kiwis failed to capitalise on their momentum and lost the opening test of the 3-match series against England on Sunday. The loss also dented New Zealand chances of reaching their second WTC final. Let’s know that Will NZ qualify for WTC 2025 final.
Batting first, New Zealand posted 348 in their first innings, thanks to brilliant 93 from Kane Williamson, and an unbeaten 58 by Glenn Phillips.
England were way behind in the game after losing their four wickets on 71, but Harry Brook’s 171 turned the tide in England’s favour.
Apart from Brook, Ollie Pope 77, and England’s skipper Ben Stokes scored 80, as the visitors put 499 on board.
The Kiwis only able to score 254 that set a 104-run target for the English side, which they chased in only 12.4 overs with eight wickets in hand to take 1-0 lead in series.
Brydon Carse, who took four wickets in first and six in second, won the player of the match award.
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Will NZ qualify for WTC 2025 final after losing to England?
Yes, but they now have to rely on the results of other teams. Earlier, New Zealand had the oppourtunity to finish at 64.21 if they managed to complete a clean sweep against England.
The scenarios changed after the Christchurch loss, as they can now only able to reach 57.14 even after winning the final two tests of the series.
New Zealand are in fourth spot currently with a percentage of 50, while England with 43.75, are in sixth place. India, who recently won a test at Perth against Australia, are in top position, followed by Australia, and both have the best chances of competing in yet another WTC final.
The Englishmen still have four games left in their WTC 2023-25 cycle campaign, although winning all four will not progress them to WTC 2025 final.
WTC Points Table after NZ vs ENG 1st Test
Pos Teams Matches Wins Losses Draw Points PCT
1 India 15 9 5 1 110 61.11
2 South Africa 9 5 3 1 64 59.25
3 Australia 13 8 4 1 90 55.56
4 New Zealand 12 6 6 0 72 50.00
5 Sri Lanka 10 5 5 0 60 50.00
6 England 20 10 9 1 93 43.75
7 Pakistan 10 4 6 0 40 33.33
8 Bangladesh 10 3 7 0 33 27.50
9 West Indies 9 1 6 2 20 18.52
Despite their loss to England, New Zealand can still dream of the WTC 2025 final. Here’s what they need to do to stay in the race.
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