England docked 12 WTC points for slow over-rate in Oval test

England's aspirations for a maiden appearance in the World Test Championship (WTC) final have been dealt a blow after the team was docked 12 points for a slow over-rate in their recent test match against New Zealand. The penalty comes on the heels of a comprehensive 253-run defeat at The Oval, which saw New Zealand level the three-match series.

In addition to a fine equivalent to 50 percent of their match fees, the loss of 12 WTC points will likely sting more for the English team. The International Cricket Council confirmed that interim captain Joe Root admitted the offense and accepted the sanction. England now sits seventh in the WTC standings, with their points percentage dropping significantly.

The top two teams in the WTC standings will qualify for the final. Currently, Australia and South Africa hold these positions and are slated to compete in the final at Lord's next year. Regular captain Ben Stokes is set to return for the third and final test against New Zealand in Nottingham.

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England interim captain Joe Root admitted the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.