New Zealand Jumps to Second in WTC Points Table After Dominant Series Win Over West Indies

New Zealand secured a dominant 323-run victory over West Indies in the third Test at Mount Maunganui, clinching the series 2-0 and rising to second place in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings. The win marked a significant boost for the Kiwis, improving their point percentage and moving them up from third place.

New Zealand now hold the second position with a point percentage of 77.78, having won two out of three matches in the ongoing WTC cycle, with one match drawn. India currently sit in sixth place with a point percentage of 48.15, climbing one spot from their previous seventh position in the standings.

The hosts dominated from start to finish. After winning the toss, New Zealand posted a massive first-innings total of 575, powered by an exceptional 323-run opening stand between Tom Latham and Devon Conway. West Indies responded with 420, anchored by an unbeaten 123 from Kavem Hodge, but were unable to overcome the deficit.

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New Zealand capitalised on their first-innings lead, declaring at 306 for 2 in the second innings to set West Indies a daunting target of 462 runs. The visitors struggled against the Kiwi attack and were bowled out for just 138, completing a comprehensive 323-run win for the hosts.

Devon Conway was named Man of the Match for his stellar performance, scoring a double century in the first innings followed by a century in the second innings—a first for a New Zealand batter in the same Test. Jacob Duffy earned the Man of the Series award, taking 23 wickets in three matches at an average of 15.43, surpassing Richard Hadlee to become New Zealand’s highest wicket-taker across formats in a calendar year.

The victory underlined New Zealand’s dominance in the series and strengthened their position as strong contenders in the ongoing WTC cycle. With both Conway and Duffy in peak form, the Kiwis will look to carry this momentum into upcoming matches and continue their climb in international Test cricket rankings.

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