New Zealand rise to second in WTC standings after West Indies series win

New Zealand strengthened their position in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 by climbing to second place in the standings following a comprehensive series victory over the West Indies. The Black Caps completed a 2-0 Test series win, underlining their strong start to the new WTC cycle.

The hosts sealed the series with a dominant performance in the final Test at Bay Oval , where they registered a massive 323-run victory . Chasing a stiff target in the fourth innings, the West Indies were bowled out cheaply as New Zealand’s pace attack delivered a clinical display on the final day.

Fast bowler Jacob Duffy emerged as the standout performer of the series, consistently troubling the West Indian batters with sharp pace and movement. He delivered the decisive blow in the final Test with impressive figures of 5 for 42 , a match-winning spell that capped an outstanding series and earned him the Player of the Series honour.

The series also witnessed notable batting contributions from New Zealand’s top order. Openers Devon Conway and Tom Latham provided solid starts throughout the contest, laying strong foundations that allowed the middle order to capitalise and put the opposition under sustained pressure.

With this result, New Zealand moved ahead of South Africa to occupy the second position on the WTC table , trailing only table-toppers Australia . The Black Caps now boast a healthy points percentage, significantly boosting their chances of qualifying for the WTC final .

For the West Indies, the tour proved challenging, with the side remaining ninth and last among the nine teams in the World Test Championship standings. They will be aiming to regroup and improve their performance in upcoming Test assignments as the championship cycle progresses, with every series now crucial to restoring momentum.

New Zealand will next shift focus to their forthcoming Test series against England , scheduled to be played at home in February 2026 , as they look to maintain momentum and further consolidate their position in the World Test Championship race .