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Dubai: India maintained their supremacy at the top of ICC rankings for Test teams after winning the three-Test series against New Zealand 1-0, while South Africa and Sri Lanka remained static on second and third position respectively.
However, the world number one India with 129 points, given their huge difference with the Kiwis (80) at the start of the series, lost one rating point despite the triumph.
On the other hand, the 0-1 verdict after draws in the first two Tests helped New Zealand earn two rating points and gain a place in the rankings chart, released after the completion of the three-match series.
Thanks to their fighting efforts in the first two Tests, New Zealand replaced West Indies from the seventh position.
India had entered the series leading eighth-placed New Zealand by 52 ratings points. This gap meant Mahendra Singh Dhoni's side was expected to win the series convincingly.
Meanwhile, the upcoming five-match Ashes series will give hosts Australia a chance to leapfrog England, placed fourth with 112 rating points.
A 1-0 or 3-2 series win will put Australia on 112 ratings points, leaving England on 109 points, while a 3-0 or 4-1 series win will lift Australia to 115 ratings points, with England on 107.
However, if England win the series they will not only retain the Ashes but also extend their advantage over the traditional rivals.
The much-anticipated series will also provide off-spinner Graeme Swann with an opportunity to become the first English bowler in over six years to top the ICC player rankings for Test bowlers.
Currently in second position, Swann trails South Africa spearhead Dale Steyn by just six ratings points. Steve Harmison was the last English bowler to top the rankings.
