Sri Lanka has surged to the fourth spot in the latest World Test Championship rankings after a commanding victory over Bangladesh, boosting their chances of securing a spot in the ICC World Test Championship final next year. Bangladesh, on the other hand, slips to joint seventh in the standings.
In a spectacular display of dominance, Sri Lanka clinched a resounding 192-run win against Bangladesh in the second Test held in Chattogram. This triumph sealed a comprehensive 2-0 series sweep for the Asian side, with the final Test concluding in the opening session of the fifth day at Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium.
With this victory, Sri Lanka has surpassed Pakistan, elevating their position in the updated World Test Championship rankings. Currently standing at fourth place, Sri Lanka boasts a 50 percent points percentage, trailing only behind India, Australia, and New Zealand.
Looking ahead, Sri Lanka still has two home series scheduled within this cycle, facing off against New Zealand later this year and hosting Australia for two Tests in early 2025.
Their upcoming challenge includes a three-match series in England, commencing in August, where they aim to carry forward the momentum gained from their recent triumph in Bangladesh.
Throughout the series, Sri Lanka showcased remarkable performances, with Kamindu Mendis emerging as the leading run-scorer, amassing 367 runs at an impressive average of 122.33. Notably, Mendis played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s massive first innings total of 531, contributing an unbeaten 92.
The Sri Lankan bowlers also shone brightly, with Asitha Fernando and Lahiru Kumara making significant contributions. Fernando claimed four wickets in the first innings, while Kumara replicated the feat in the second innings, collectively dismantling the Bangladesh batting lineup.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s descent to joint seventh place in the World Test Championship standings highlights the challenges they face. Their focus now shifts to their upcoming series against Pakistan, where they will contest two Test matches later this year.