England's dramatic win in Karachi boosts their world standing

England's first series victory in Pakistan for 39 years saw them climb from sixth to fourth place in The Cricketer International Ratings for Test Cricket. It is their highest rating since June 1997 when the current captain, Nasser Hussain, made a double-century against Australia to forge a win in the Ashes opener at Edgbaston.

Two creditable draws in the first two Tests of this series, in Lahore and Faisalabad, had brought England level with India in the Ratings. But the relatively high standing of Pakistan, who remain in third place, allied with playing away from home and losing the toss, ensured that England swept past Sri Lanka and New Zealand.

In inflicting Pakistan's first defeat in 35 Tests in Karachi, it was their first series win in Pakistan since Ted Dexter led England's inaugural tour of the country in 1961/62. It was their first victory in an overseas Test series since New Zealand in 1996/97, and their first defeat of Pakistan since Bob Willis's team at home in 1982.

This new-found status will be put to the test when they tour Sri Lanka for a three-Test series in the New Year. The islanders are six points in arrears, while Pakistan are still ahead of England by two points. Australia, of course, are clearly in front while South Africa remain in second place, 20 points ahead of Nasser Hussain's side.

The Cricketer's Team Ratings for Test and One-Day International cricket began in May 1993 and is the original version of several systems in use. Calculations for points between 0 and 100 are based on recent results, margins of victory, the relative ratings of the contesting teams, home advantage and the result of the toss.