England registered a resounding four-wicket victory over Australia in the fourth Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series. In this Boxing Day Test match played at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, England were set a target of 175 runs in the second innings, which the team chased down for the loss of six wickets. This victory in Melbourne is England’s first victory in 19 Test matches played in Australia.
The match result put an effect on the WTC points table
This victory will impact the points table for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-2027. Australia’s points percentage (PCT) was 100% before the Melbourne Test. This defeat marks Australia’s first loss in this cycle. Despite the loss, Australia remains at the top of the points table. However, its PCT has dropped from 100% to 85.71%. Australia’s entry into the final is considered almost certain.
However, New Zealand remains at the top. Stokes’ team has earned a total of 12 points in the current cycle, but they still have a long way to go. With a PCT of 35.18%, they are in seventh place. Meanwhile, India are in sixth place with four wins and four losses from nine matches. Australia’s defeat has benefited New Zealand and South Africa the most.
Given Australia and New Zealand’s strong performances, India will need to perform well in the upcoming series to secure a top-2 finish. In this scenario, the team could secure a top-2 finish and once again make the final.
WTC Points Table
Australia: 7 matches, 6 wins
New Zealand: 3 matches, 2 wins
South Africa: 4 matches, 3 wins
Sri Lanka: 2 matches, 1 win
Pakistan: 2 matches, 1 win
India: 9 matches, 4 wins
England: 9 matches, 3 wins
Bangladesh: 2 matches, 0 wins
West Indies: 8 matches, 0 wins
The final Test of the Ashes series will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground from January 4. Australia will look to reassert their dominance, while England will look to maintain their winning streak.