The race for a spot in the World Test Championship (WTC) final has intensified following South Africa’s recent performances, which have put them on the brink of qualification.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series between India and Australia unfolds, the stakes are high for both teams, particularly for India, who are vying to secure their place in the WTC final scheduled for June 2025.
Current Standings and Scenarios
South Africa’s recent victory over Sri Lanka has left them needing just one more win to confirm their spot in the WTC final.
Meanwhile, India and Australia find themselves in a precarious position as they compete for the remaining slots. The ongoing series is currently tied at 1-1, making each match critical for both teams’ aspirations.
For India, the situation is clear: they must aim for a draw in the third Test at Brisbane to maintain their chances of qualifying. If they can secure a draw, it would allow them to remain in contention as they head into the final two matches of the series.
A win in either of those matches would be essential to ensure they finish in the top two of the WTC standings.
Why India Would Favor a Draw?
Given the current circumstances, a draw in Brisbane could be strategically advantageous for India:
- Preserving Points: A drawn match would allow India to accumulate crucial points without risking further losses, especially after their recent defeat in Adelaide.
- Weather Considerations: Forecasts predict rain disruptions over the next few days, which could impact play. If conditions lead to significant interruptions, a draw becomes more plausible and favorable for India.
- Focus on Upcoming Matches: By securing a draw, India can shift their focus to winning the remaining Tests in Melbourne and Sydney. They need to win at least two of those matches to ensure they have a shot at qualifying for the WTC final without relying on other teams’ results.
Implications of Current Performances
As of now, Australia has taken a commanding position in the third Test, leading by a substantial margin after posting 445 runs in their first innings. India’s batting lineup has struggled under pressure, finding themselves at 51 for 4 at stumps on Day 3. This puts them at risk of facing a follow-on if they cannot reach 246 runs.
However, In a thrilling display of resilience, India’s tailenders Akash Deep and Jasprit Bumrah forged an unbeaten 39-run partnership for the last wicket, ensuring that India avoided the follow-on during the fourth day of the third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane.
This partnership was crucial as it not only kept India’s innings alive but also provided a significant morale boost heading into the final stages of the match.
