WTC Final Race Heats Up as New Zealand, England Penalized for 3 points for Slow Over-Rate

The race to secure a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final has become even more intense after New Zealand and England were penalized three WTC points each for maintaining a slow over-rate during the opening Test of their three-match series in Christchurch.

On Tuesday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the sanctions, which included a 15% fine on match fees for both teams. The penalties came after both sides were found to be three overs short of the required target, even after time allowances were considered.

In a statement, the ICC explained, “Teams are penalized one point for each over they fall short. New Zealand and England were three overs behind the target.” The charges, brought by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Rod Tucker, third umpire Adrian Holdstock, and fourth official Kim Cotton, were accepted by England captain Ben Stokes and New Zealand skipper Tom Latham, avoiding the need for a formal hearing.

While England, already out of contention for the WTC final next year in London, clinched an 8-wicket victory in Christchurch, the penalties have significantly impacted New Zealand’s chances. The inaugural WTC champions dropped from the joint fourth position to fifth in the standings.

New Zealand’s points percentage now stands at 47.92%, and even if they win the remaining two Tests against England, their maximum achievable percentage is 55.36%. Their qualification for the final will heavily rely on the results of other teams’ matches.

With the final scheduled for next year in London, the competition remains wide open, and every match is becoming increasingly critical for teams still in the race.