India’s lead at the top of the World Test Championship (WTC) standings has narrowed after New Zealand’s victory, bringing the Black Caps back into contention for a second appearance in the final.

In the first Test in Bengaluru, New Zealand secured a comfortable win, chasing a modest target of 107. The win propelled the Kiwis from sixth to fourth in the WTC standings, with a win-loss percentage of 44.44 percent.

Although India remains in first place, their loss to New Zealand has slightly weakened their grip on a spot in next year’s WTC final. Their percentage now stands at 68.06 percent, with two more Tests against New Zealand and a critical five-match series against Australia at the end of the year.

Australia and Sri Lanka are India’s closest competitors, with Australia in second place at 62.50 percent and Sri Lanka close behind at 55.56 percent, following their series sweep over New Zealand.

New Zealand’s win has reignited their chances for a second WTC final appearance. They leapfrogged both England and South Africa to reclaim fourth place in the standings.

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New Zealand will host England for three Tests in November and December. With strong performances, they could still contend for a top-two finish, especially if they continue to gain positive results in their remaining matches against India.

In Bengaluru, New Zealand’s fast bowlers dominated. Matt Henry (5/15) and Will O’Rourke (4/22) dismantled India’s batting lineup on the second day, bowling them out for just 46 in the first innings. Though India recovered in their second innings, posting a respectable 462, the early collapse—after rain washed out day one—had already tipped the game in New Zealand’s favor.

The second Test between India and New Zealand begins on October 24 in Pune, with the series finale set for November 1 in Mumbai.