As the World Test Championship (WTC) approaches its climax, the race for the final at Lord’s next year intensifies, with India, Australia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka vying for the coveted spots.
Currently, South Africa leads the standings, but India’s hopes hinge on their performance in the upcoming Tests against Australia and some unexpected results from Pakistan’s matches against South Africa.
WTC Final Current Scenario
India’s WTC aspirations are straightforward: they must win both remaining Tests against Australia in Melbourne and Sydney.
Achieving this would elevate their points percentage to approximately 60.52%, securing a direct path to the final.
However, if India manages to split the series or draws one match, they will need assistance from Pakistan to maintain their chances.
How Pakistan Can Help in India’s WTC Final Qualification?
- Winning One Test Against Australia:
- If India wins one Test and draws another against Australia, their points percentage would be around 57.02%, which is insufficient for direct qualification.
- In this scenario, if Pakistan can win at least one Test against South Africa, it would significantly improve India’s chances. A 1-0 series win for Pakistan would bolster India’s position considerably.
- Series Split Between Pakistan and South Africa:
- If Pakistan and South Africa end up with a 1-1 draw, India would then rely on the outcomes of the Sri Lanka-Australia series. Should Australia sweep Sri Lanka 2-0, India would be eliminated from contention for the final.
- Best-Case Scenario:
- The ideal outcome for India would be if Pakistan could achieve a 2-0 victory over South Africa. This result would guarantee India’s qualification for the final regardless of other match outcomes.
- If India Wins One Match Against Australia:
- In this case, for India to secure a place in the final, Pakistan must again win both Tests against South Africa. This outcome would ensure that even if Australia sweeps Sri Lanka, India would still qualify ahead of South Africa.
Historically, winning a Test series in South Africa has proven challenging for Asian teams; Sri Lanka remains the only Asian nation to have achieved this feat.
Therefore, while Pakistan has a mathematical chance to aid India’s qualification hopes, they face a daunting task.
