Nottingham: New Zealand strengthened their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 standings after registering a comprehensive 160-run victory over England in the third and final Test, clinching the series 2-1.

Chasing a challenging target of 373 runs on the final day at Trent Bridge, England were bowled out for 212, handing New Zealand a memorable win on English soil. The result has improved New Zealand’s chances of qualifying for the next WTC final, while England continue to struggle in the standings.

Updated WTC points table standings

Following the victory, New Zealand remain in third place in the WTC points table but have significantly improved their points percentage (PCT) to 72.22. England, on the other hand, continue to occupy the seventh spot, with their PCT dropping to 24.36.

Australia and South Africa continue to dominate the table, holding the first and second positions with PCTs of 87.50 and 75 respectively.

The latest result highlights the growing competition among teams vying for a place in the WTC final, with consistency becoming a decisive factor.

New Zealand script rare series win in England

This triumph marks only the fourth time New Zealand have won a Test series in England. Their previous series victories in the country came in 1986, 1999, and 2021, making this achievement particularly significant.

Winning a series in England has traditionally been a difficult task for visiting teams due to challenging conditions and strong home performances. New Zealand’s ability to overcome these factors underscores their growing strength in Test cricket.

England falter in run chase

England’s hopes of chasing down the target rested heavily on experienced batter Joe Root and young Emilio Gay, who resumed the final day’s play. However, both were dismissed early, dealing a major blow to the hosts.

Gay managed just 10 runs before edging behind, while Root was run out for 18 following a sharp piece of fielding by Henry Nicholls.

A brief resistance came through a 75-run partnership between Jamie Smith and Gus Atkinson for the seventh wicket. The duo showed determination and delayed New Zealand’s victory, but the effort proved insufficient.

Atkinson was dismissed for 19 after being trapped lbw by Mitchell Santner, while Smith top-scored with 60 before falling shortly after lunch, effectively ending England’s chances.

Bowlers lead New Zealand’s charge

New Zealand’s bowling attack delivered a disciplined performance to seal the win. Zak Foulkes led the charge with three wickets, while Nathan Smith and Mitchell Santner contributed with two wickets each.

Their collective effort ensured that England never gained momentum during the chase, with wickets falling at regular intervals.

Conclusion

New Zealand’s emphatic victory not only secured a rare series win in England but also provided a significant boost to their World Test Championship campaign. With their PCT improving and momentum on their side, they have emerged as strong contenders for the WTC final.

For England, the defeat highlights ongoing inconsistencies, and they will need a strong turnaround in upcoming matches to revive their chances in the championship cycle.