Major changes in WTC points table as Sri Lanka inches closer to India after win against New Zealand

Sri Lanka have made a historical comeback in red-ball cricket after beating New Zealand in the 1st Test match. Even after a fighting performance from the Kiwis, the hosts went on to win the game by 63 runs, thanks to the batters' commendable performance in both innings. With this win, Sri Lanka have now jumped up in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table, moving an inch closer to India. 

Now, the Island Nation are in the third position with four wins out of eight games, pushing the Black Caps down after a terrific win. Above them are India and Australia, which are placed in the first and second positions of the WTC points table. The Men in Blue have retained their position after their win against Bangladesh by 280 runs. Meanwhile, Australia are safe in second place since they have won eight games in 12 matches. 

New Zealand will have to gear up and win matches against Sri Lanka if they want to qualify for the WTC Finals as their next assignment is against India. This series wouldn't be easy for the Kiwis since India will be playing on their home ground, where they are undefeatable. Plus, their bowling attack is extremely powerful in the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin and Jasprit Bumrah. Hence, the Kiwis will have a tough time in the Indian sub-contintent. 

The win in England boosted our morale: Dhananjaya de Silva

Sri Lanka's win against England in the 3rd Test match was the turning point in all the players' lives. They have now started believing that they have the ability to win games against any team. Beating the strong New Zealand side isn't everybody's cup of tea. However, the Sri Lankan batters have shown their worth through their performance in both innings. Skipper de Silva was proud of the boys for their brilliant performance in the match and hoped that their confidence would continue in the upcoming games as well.  

"The win in England boosted our morale, we've the ability to win Tests and the boys are delivering now. Big partnerships always help win Tests in Galle (on the partnership between Karunaratne and Chandimal in the second innings), but we can improve in both our batting and bowling," said Dhananjaya de Silva.