England Cricket Team Faces Setback in World Test Championship After Penalty

The England cricket team has encountered a setback in the World Test Championship, dropping to third place after a two-point deduction due to a slow over rate in their recent match against India. Despite winning the Test, the team faced penalties that affected their standings and point percentage. Captain Ben Stokes accepted the sanctions, which included a fine and a reduction in points. This development has allowed Sri Lanka to overtake England in the rankings, while Australia remains at the top with an unbeaten record. Read on to learn more about the implications of this penalty.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 16, 2025, 12:24 IST

England's World Test Championship Position Deteriorates

London: The England cricket squad has dropped to third place in the World Test Championship standings as of Wednesday, following a deduction of two points due to a slow over rate during their recent Test match against India at Lord's.

After their narrow victory by 22 runs on Monday, Ben Stokes and his team were also fined 10% of their match fee.

Match referee Richie Richardson enforced this penalty after determining that England fell short by two overs, even after accounting for time allowances. Currently, India holds the fourth position in the WTC standings.

According to Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which addresses minimum over-rate violations, players incur a fine of 5% of their match fee for each over not bowled within the designated time frame, as stated by the ICC.

Furthermore, under Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship regulations, teams lose one point for every over they fall short. As a result, England's points were reduced from 24 to 22 out of a possible 36.

This penalty has also lowered their point percentage (PCT) from 66.67% to 61.11%. Consequently, Sri Lanka has surpassed England to claim the second spot with a PCT of 66.67%.

Australia currently leads the WTC table with a perfect 100% after winning all three of their matches, while India has a PCT of 33.33%.

Captain Ben Stokes admitted to the infraction and accepted the penalties, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.

The charge was brought forth by on-field umpires Paul Reiffel and Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid, along with third umpire Ahsan Raza and fourth umpire Graham Lloyd.