Proteas lead ICC Test rankings: What’s next on WTC calendar?

The Proteas are riding high in the ICC’s international Test cricket standings.

South Africa’s series win over Australia has taken them to the top on multiple fronts.

Here’s what the calendar still has in store for the defending Test champions.

Proteas top ICC Test rankings

South Africa defeated Australia at Newlands in the Third Test, which wrapped up on 31 October.

That win propelled the Proteas to the top of the ICC Test rankings.

The victory also took Temba Bavuma and the team to second in the World Test Championship (WTC) table.

According to the ICC, New Zealand are leading with a percentage of 72.22.

South Africa, after winning the Australia series 2-1, are sitting on 71.43.

They have a couple of weeks to rest before the next challenge arrives.

Squad Announcement 🚨

The South Africa Men’s selection panel has today named a 15-player squad to face Bangladesh in the two-match Dafabet Test series later this month.

The first Dafabet Test will take place at the DP World Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg from 15 – 19… pic.twitter.com/ccVnLOtNwm

— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA)

November 2, 2026

What’s next FOR PROTEAS IN WTC?

The Proteas host Bangladesh for two Test matches on 15-19 November and 23-27 November.

The Tigers are fifth in the WTC table, including a win against Australia in August.

In December, South Africa and England will contest the Basil D’Oliviera Trophy.

The Proteas host the Three Lions for three games stretching into January 2027.

South Africa then wraps up the WTC cycle away to Sri Lanka in February-March 2027.

Meanwhile, New Zealand must get past India, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan in their remaining fixtures.

Australia face the Black Caps next, followed by five games against India.

This is good news for the Proteas, who have arguably the easier path to the trophy.

The final will be played from 9-13 June next year at The Oval in London.

South Africa won the previous World Test Championship after defeating Australia in the final.

CAN THE PROTEAS STAY TOP OF THE ICC TEST RANKINGS?

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