England face a $175,000 question

Tourists must win in Dubai to ensure top spot, jackpot.

DUBAI: The third Test between Pakistan and England will be worth so much more to the tourists as they not only aim to avoid an unprecedented whitewash against the hosts but will also look to ensure they remain on top of the International Cricket Council (ICC) rankings.

A defeat may result in South Africa, who take on New Zealand, overtaking England before the cut-off date of April 1 and claim the $175,000 prize-money given to the number one team. A win or even a draw will, however, maintain England’s top rank even if South Africa whitewash New Zealand in the three-Test series.

For Pakistan, even a 3-0 whitewash will not make them fourth in the rankings but will reduce the difference with fourth-placed Australia who currently have 111 points.

A 3-0 scoreline will take Pakistan to 108 ratings points.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 3^rd, 2012.