Wanderers Test win helps India retain ICC Test Championship mace

India came to South Africa as the No.1 Test side with 124 points as the hosts remained 13 points behind on 111 points. After winning one and losing two of the three-match Test series, India will now return on 121 points with South Africa reaching only 115 points. 

With April 3 the cut-off date this year, it is enough for India to keep hold of the prestigious mace for the second year running. Virat Kohli will be given the mace and a cheque of $1 million in a presentation ceremony. In 2016, Kohli became the 10th captain to get his hands on the mace since 2002.

India kept their record at the Wanderers intact as they prevented the whitewash that was predicted by many. If South Africa had managed to win it 3-0 against India, then a win by 2-0 or better against Australia would have been enough for them to reclaim the mace that they had last won in 2015.

Australia, who are scheduled to tour South Africa next, will now get $200,000 for a third-placed finish. However, a 3-0 or 4-0 win for the Aussies will help Steven Smith and company leapfrog the Proteas into the second place.