NEW DELHI: New Zealand's World Test Championship Final hopes faced a setback on Tuesday as they received a three-point penalty for slow over-rate in their match against England, resulting in a slide in the standings, according to ICC.
This development benefits India, who maintain their leading position with 61.11 percentage points.
Following the penalty, New Zealand's points percentage stands at 47.92 percent, with a maximum possible increase to 55.36 percent if they win their remaining two matches against England.
The current standings show South Africa (59.26), Australia (57.26) and Sri Lanka (50) occupying second, third and fourth positions respectively.
"The race to feature at next year's ICC World Test Championship Final at Lord's has taken a twist with New Zealand and England sanctioned for maintaining a slow over-rate during the opening Test of their series in Christchurch," the ICC said in a statement.
"Both teams were fined 15 percent of their match fees and penalised three crucial World Test Championship competition points, adding more intrigue to the thrilling final stages of the ongoing cycle," it further stated.
England's chances for next year's final are already finished despite their eight-wicket victory at Hagley Oval. However, the points deduction significantly affects New Zealand, who have moved from joint fourth to fifth position in the standings.
The inaugural World Test Championship winners now face significant challenges to reach the June 2025 one-off Test, requiring two victories against England and favourable results in other matches to secure a place in the Lord's final.
Both teams were found to be three overs behind schedule after considering time allowances, resulting in a one-point penalty per over shortfall.
The team captains, Tom Latham and Ben Stokes, accepted their responsibility and the proposed sanctions, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
The charges were brought by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Rod Tucker, third umpire Adrian Holdstock and fourth official Kim Cotton, with David Boon from the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees implementing the penalties.
