South Africa has moved to the top of the ICC World Test Championship standings after securing a 2-0 series sweep against Sri Lanka. The Proteas' victory in the second and final Test at St George's Park in Gqeberha boosted their chances of qualifying for the final at Lord's next summer. South Africa's spinner Keshav Maharaj played a key role, taking five wickets on the final day to claim his 11th career five-wicket haul. Sri Lanka's hopes for the Lord's final have all-but ended with their defeat.
South Africa Soars to Top of ICC World Test Championship
South Africa has emerged as the frontrunner in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings after claiming a dominant 2-0 series victory over Sri Lanka. The Proteas' triumph in the second Test at St George's Park in Gqeberha strengthens their position and boosts their hopes of securing a place in the final at Lord's next summer.
Key Moments
The Proteas' victory was orchestrated by a stellar performance from spinner Keshav Maharaj, who claimed a five-wicket haul on the final day of the second Test. This marked his 11th career five-wicket haul and played a pivotal role in South Africa's success.
Sri Lanka's hopes of reaching Lord's have been dealt a significant blow by their defeat. The team's performance in the series has diminished their chances of qualification, leaving them out of contention for the top spot.
Background
The ICC World Test Championship is a two-year competition that pits the world's top Test nations against each other in a league format. The top two teams at the end of the league stage qualify for the final at Lord's, which will be held in June 2023.
South Africa has a strong history in Test cricket, having won the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1998 and reaching the final in 2007. The team has also claimed several major series victories in recent years, including a 3-0 whitewash of Pakistan in 2021.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Who is the current leader of the ICC World Test Championship standings? Answer: South Africa
2. How many wickets did Keshav Maharaj take in the second Test against Sri Lanka? Answer: 5
3. Has Sri Lanka qualified for the ICC World Test Championship final? Answer: No
4. When will the ICC World Test Championship final be held? Answer: June 2023
5. Which team has won the most ICC Cricket World Cups? Answer: Australia (5)
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