In the world of Test cricket, some days are just written in the stars. December 2025 has given us one of those moments, and it’s thanks to a gritty, never-say-die performance from the West Indies in their second Test against New Zealand. While the match ended in a draw, the story that unfolded was nothing short of legendary—and it’s sent ripples through the WTC points table.
Table of Contents
- The Epic Draw That Shook Test Cricket
- WTC Points Table: Updated After WI vs NZ
- What This Draw Means for West Indies and New Zealand
- India’s Position in the 2025-27 WTC Cycle
- Key Takeaways and What to Watch Next
The Epic Draw That Shook Test Cricket
Chasing a monumental 537 to win in Hamilton, the West Indies weren’t just facing a target—they were staring down the barrel of history. No team had ever successfully chased down such a score in the fourth innings of a Test match. Yet, they came astonishingly close to rewriting the record books.
The hero of the hour was Justin Greaves, who played the innings of his life, smashing an unbeaten 202 off 388 balls. His knock, the highest fourth-innings score by a West Indian against New Zealand, was a masterclass in concentration and resilience . He was ably supported by captain Shai Hope, who contributed a crucial 140, and the ever-reliable Kemar Roach, who batted for over 230 deliveries to finish on 58 not out .
Together, they guided the West Indies to 457 for 6, the second-highest fourth-innings total in Test history, in a bid that lasted a staggering 163.3 overs . It was a display of old-school grit that reminded everyone why Test cricket is the ultimate test of character.
WTC points table Updated After WI vs NZ
While the match was a draw, it had significant implications for the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 standings. Under the current points system, a draw awards both teams 4 points each .
Following this result, New Zealand has inched up the table, gaining valuable points to bolster their position in the middle of the pack. For the West Indies, despite their heroic effort, the 4 points weren’t enough to lift them from the bottom of the standings .
Here’s a snapshot of the current WTC points table landscape as of December 6, 2025 [[10], [14]]:
- 1. Australia: Leading the pack with a strong start to the cycle.
- 2. South Africa: Hot on Australia’s heels.
- 3. Sri Lanka: Showing impressive form in the current cycle.
- 4. Pakistan: Holding a solid position.
- 5. India: Sitting comfortably in the top half.
- 7. New Zealand: Moved up after the draw with WI .
- 9. West Indies: Still at the bottom despite their valiant effort .
What This Draw Means for West Indies and New Zealand
For New Zealand, a draw at home against a touring side is a mixed bag. While they didn’t secure a win, they avoided a catastrophic loss on home soil, which would have been a massive blow to their WTC campaign. The 4 points are a small but welcome addition to their tally.
For the West Indies, the story is one of immense pride but lingering frustration. Their performance was arguably worth more than a simple draw. However, the current WTC structure, which heavily rewards wins, means their incredible fight only translates to a modest 4 points. This leaves them with a mountain to climb in their quest to make the WTC final .
India’s Position in the 2025-27 WTC Cycle
While all eyes were on Hamilton, India has been quietly managing its own WTC campaign. As of now, India is placed a solid 5th on the WTC points table for the 2025-27 cycle .
Their position is a testament to their consistent, if not dominant, performances in recent series. To climb higher and secure a spot in the final, India will need to replicate their away success and dominate in home conditions. Every match, and every point, is crucial in this tightly contested championship.
For fans looking to track their team’s journey, the official ICC website provides the most authoritative and up-to-date standings for all international cricket events, including the ICC World Test Championship.
Key Takeaways and What to Watch Next
The West Indies’ performance in Hamilton is a powerful reminder that in Test cricket, the scoreboard doesn’t always tell the full story. Their heart and determination have inspired fans worldwide, even if the WTC points table reflects a more modest outcome.
Looking ahead, the focus will shift to the upcoming fixtures. The next few months will be pivotal for teams like India and New Zealand as they look to solidify their positions. The West Indies, now fueled by this historic draw, will be hungry for their first win of the cycle in the third Test.
For more in-depth analysis of team strategies and player form, check out our coverage on [INTERNAL_LINK:icc-world-test-championship-analysis] and [INTERNAL_LINK:west-indies-cricket-team-preview].
Final Summary
Justin Greaves’ magnificent 202* led West Indies to an epic draw against New Zealand, a result that earned them 4 points in the ICC World Test Championship. While New Zealand climbed the WTC points table, the West Indies remain at the bottom. India, meanwhile, holds a firm 5th place as the 2025-27 cycle progresses.
Sources
- Justin Greaves’ historic double ton for West Indies.
- [[2], [8]] West Indies’ 457/6 as the second-highest fourth-innings total.
- Details on Greaves’ and Roach’s innings.
- [[10], [14], [15], [18]] Updates on the ICC WTC 2025-27 points table.
- ICC’s official WTC points system.