India’s ambitions of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final have faced a setback following consecutive losses to New Zealand. After suffering a 113-run defeat in the Pune Test, India’s position in the WTC points table has weakened, complicating their path to the final. Fans who were hopeful for a series victory of 3-0 or 2-1 against New Zealand now find themselves grappling with a 2-0 series deficit.
Prior to the Pune Test, India led the WTC points table with a percentage of 68.06%, followed by Australia (62.50%), Sri Lanka (55.56%), and South Africa (47.62%). New Zealand was in fifth place with 44.44%. However, the loss in Pune has reduced India’s percentage to 62.82%, while New Zealand’s victory has increased their percentage to 50%, allowing them to climb to fourth place.
India’s drop from 68.06% to 62.82% underscores the significant impact of their recent loss. Although they still remain at the top of the WTC points table, their previously secure position is now under threat, with other teams ready to capitalize on any further missteps. The decline in points percentage means that every upcoming match in this WTC cycle is crucial for India to maintain their chances for the final.
Despite the recent setbacks, India is not yet eliminated from contention for the WTC final. However, with only six matches left in the cycle, winning at least four is now essential for keeping their hopes alive. India’s remaining schedule includes one match against a resurgent New Zealand team and a challenging five-match series against Australia. Losing two or three of these matches could effectively end their chances for the final.
Other teams are also vying for a spot in the WTC final and are closely monitoring India’s progress. Here’s a look at the remaining matches and win requirements for the top contenders:
Sri Lanka (3rd place): With four matches left, Sri Lanka must win at least three to maintain a realistic chance at the final. Their schedule includes two home matches against Australia and two away matches against South Africa, presenting a tough challenge.
New Zealand (4th place): New Zealand’s recent resurgence has put them back in contention. They have four matches remaining, including one against India in Mumbai and three at home against England. To stay in the race, New Zealand will likely need to win all these matches.
South Africa (5th place): South Africa is facing a critical stretch with five matches ahead, needing four wins to remain in contention. They will play one match against Bangladesh and two each against Sri Lanka and Pakistan at home, giving them a potential advantage.
As India approaches their final six matches, the pressure mounts to secure victories and maintain their position atop the WTC points table. While their path has become more intricate, their fate remains in their own hands, contingent on their performance in the remaining matches. With fans eagerly anticipating India’s next moves, each match will be crucial in their WTC journey.
