India will remain No.1 Test team even if South Africa win the series

Irrespective of the final result of the South Africa vs India Test series which begins on January 5, India will maintain their numero uno status in the ICC Test rankings, but if the hosts win all the three matches, then they will share the top spot with India.

Faf du Plessis’ side is 13 points behind the Men in Blue, who have 124 points. If the Proteas whitewash India in the series, both the sides will end with 118 points each. But even then, India will be ranked above South Africa when the points are calculated beyond the decimal point, wherein India will be on 118.47 points, while South Africa will be on 117.53.

Position of the team explains its prowess

Explaining the importance of team rankings in Test cricket, South Africa coach Ottis Gibson affirmed, “Because there is no Test Championship just yet, the prize at the end of it is to reach the pinnacle to be called the best Test team in the world, even if only for a series or a week. The objective for this team is certainly to get to number one and we feel strongly that if we win the next two series, that will put us somewhere close to being number one again. Everybody in the group understands what we’re trying to achieve.”

Visitors will play for pride and not points

The first Test between India and South Africa will take place at Newlands Cricket Ground in Cape Town from January 5. The second and third Tests are scheduled to be held in Centurion and Johannesburg respectively.

Considering the team’s recent dominant form in the format, they will be playing to salvage their pride in South Africa, despite knowing that a loss will not hamper their top position in the team rankings. Virat Kohli, on the other hand, will be eager to ensure the team maintains their winning run from the home season to away tours.