Adelaide, 21 December (H.S.): Australia solidified its stranglehold on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings by thrashing England by 82 runs in the third Ashes Test here on Sunday, clinching an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

In a commanding display, Australia amassed 371 in their first innings, powered by wicketkeeper-batsman Alex Carey's resolute century (106) and opener Usman Khawaja's gritty half-century (82). England responded with 286, led by captain Ben Stokes' defiant 83, conceding an 85-run lead.

Australia then piled on 349 in their second dig, highlighted by opener Travis Head's magnificent 170, setting England a daunting victory target of 435 runs. Chasing on the final day, England crumbled to 352 all out, suffering a third consecutive defeat.

This emphatic win elevates Australia to 72 points from six matches—all victories—with a perfect 100% points percentage, positioning them ideally for a third straight WTC final at Lord's in 2027. England, meanwhile, languishes in seventh place with 26 points from eight matches (two wins) and a dismal 27.08% points share, making their maiden final dream even more elusive despite two remaining Ashes Tests Down Under.

WTC Standings Snapshot

South Africa holds second with 75% points from four matches (three wins), boosted by their recent 2-0 series sweep over India. New Zealand ranks third, Sri Lanka fourth, and Pakistan fifth. India sits sixth with 52 points from nine matches (four wins) at 48.15%, followed by England (7th), Bangladesh (8th), and West Indies (9th).The fourth Ashes Test begins December 26 in Melbourne, where England desperately seeks revival.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar