Question
Q 100. Consider the following statements in respect of the ICC World Test Championship:
1. The finalists were decided by the number of matches they won.
2. New Zealand was ranked ahead of England because it won more matches than England.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: D
Detailed Explanation
Statement 1 is incorrect. The finalists for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2019–2021 were not determined solely based on the number of matches won.
Instead, the rankings were based on the percentage of points (PCT) earned out of the total possible points. This system was introduced due to disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to teams playing an unequal number of matches.
India and New Zealand qualified for the final, finishing first and second respectively based on their PCT.
Statement 2 is also incorrect: Although New Zealand finished above England in the WTC standings, it was not because they won more matches.
New Zealand won 7 out of 11 matches, while England won 11 out of 21. Despite having more wins, England’s PCT was lower at 61.4%, compared to New Zealand’s 70.0%.
Thus, New Zealand ranked higher due to a better PCT, not a greater number of match victories.
