Pakistan might slip to number 4 in ICC Test rankings

Pakistan is a force to beat when it comes to Test cricket. Although their limited overs performances have been inconsistent, they have been the team to beat in Tests. They are perhaps one of the few sides that has tasted success in overseas conditions in the recent past. However, the ongoing series against New Zealand has not been very fruitful for them.

After having lost the first Test, they are facing an uphill task in the second match. They have been finding it tough to cope up in the seamer friendly conditions. They have been set a target of 369 to win. On a tour when they have failed to cross the 250-run mark till now, this sounds like a daunting effort.

If they end up losing the second ongoing Test, there are chances that they might slip down to number 4 in the ICC Test rankings. However, for this to happen, India also needs to beat England in the ongoing Mohali Test. India looks in a commanding position to win the match against the English side. New Zealand, too, are clear favorites on the last day of the second Test.

A combined result of India and New Zealand winning their respective matches will see Pakistan slump down to number 4 in the rankings with 103 points, tied with England. England will be placed at number 3 based on their higher points. Pakistan’s fall will see Australia rise to number 2 spot despite their recent 2-1 defeat to South Africa.

India will continue to stay on top of the points table with 117 ratings if they win the Mohali Test. Pakistan recently reigned at the top of the ICC ranking for a brief while after their 2-2 series in England. Their stay at the top was short-lived as India displaced them soon after. Pakistan, who are currently ranked number 2, will hope that they do not slip down any further after having made such giant progress in the ICC Test rankings.