For now, Indian had managed to retain their No 2 spot in the ICC Test rankings. But faltering miserably in their ongoing tour of New Zealand, India are in danger of losing their second spot if Australia win their away series against South Africa starting on Thursday.
Second-placed India are trailing the two-match series against New Zealand 0-1 after losing the opening by 40 runs on Sunday.
South Africa are the clear leaders on the table with 133 ratings points, while Australia currently sit third with 111 ratings points.
South Africa will retain the number-one position on the table irrespective of the outcome of the series. However, there will be a keen tussle between India and Australia for second position.
Australia will move into second position if they win the series, irrespective of the result in the second Test between India and New Zealand in Wellington, starting from February 14.
In case India does not win the second Test, Australia need only to draw the series to move into second place. However, if Australia was to lose the series, then there will be no change of positions on the table, the ICC said in a statement.
Image: The Indian players.
Photograph: Phil Walter/Getty Images
