India’s World Test Championship (WTC) journey is still very much alive after their rain-impacted third Test against Australia ended in a draw at the Gabba in Brisbane. Despite a frustrating weather disruption, India’s hopes of qualifying for the WTC final remain intact. As we move forward into the final stretch of the WTC 2023-25 cycle, India must navigate through critical fixtures to secure a spot in the prestigious final. Here’s a detailed look at the latest WTC Test rankings, India’s current position, and their qualification chances.
India’s Current Position in WTC Rankings
Following the draw at the Gabba, India’s points percentage (PCT) dropped slightly to 55.88, while Australia’s PCT also decreased to 58.89. However, despite this dip, both teams maintained their positions in the WTC standings. As of now, South Africa continues to lead the table with a commanding position. Australia sits in second place, while India is ranked third, trailing slightly behind.
India has two remaining Tests against Australia — one in Melbourne starting on December 26, and the final one in Sydney from January 3. The results of these matches, along with other key series, will play a decisive role in determining whether India qualifies for the WTC final for the third consecutive time.
How Can India Qualify for the WTC Final?
India’s qualification for the WTC final largely depends on their performance in the last two Tests of the series against Australia. Here’s a breakdown of India’s qualification scenarios:
Scenario 1: India Wins Both Remaining Tests
If India wins both of their remaining Tests against Australia, their PCT will rise to 60.52. In this case, India will be almost certain to finish in the top two spots, making it impossible for Australia to surpass them, even if they win both of their upcoming Tests against Sri Lanka.
Scenario 2: India Wins One and Draws Another
If India manages to win one Test and draw another, they will still have a good chance to qualify for the final. However, this scenario relies on Sri Lanka drawing at least one of their Tests against Australia in their upcoming series. This would ensure that India remains in the top two positions, provided they don’t lose both remaining Tests.
Scenario 3: India Loses One Test
In the event India loses one of their remaining Tests against Australia, the stakes become higher. India would need to rely on Sri Lanka defeating Australia 2-0 in their home series. This would keep India’s qualification hopes alive, but they would need to be cautious of other developments in the race for the final spot.
Other Key Scenarios Impacting India’s Qualification
- South Africa’s Role: South Africa is also in the race to qualify for the WTC final. They need just one win against Pakistan in their upcoming two-Test series to confirm their spot in the final. If Pakistan manages to win both Tests against South Africa, India’s path to qualification becomes clearer, as India will need just one victory against Australia to secure a top-two finish.
- Australia vs Sri Lanka: Australia will travel to Sri Lanka for two Tests in January and February. The outcome of these matches could significantly impact India’s qualification chances. If Sri Lanka manages to draw one of their Tests against Australia, it would favor India’s qualification bid.
Upcoming Fixtures: A Decisive Period for All Teams
Here’s a quick look at the remaining fixtures for India, Australia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka in the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle:
- Australia vs India (4th Test) – Melbourne, December 26-30
- Australia vs India (5th Test) – Sydney, January 3-7
- South Africa vs Pakistan (1st Test) – Centurion, December 26-30
- South Africa vs Pakistan (2nd Test) – Cape Town, December 26-30
- Sri Lanka vs Australia (1st Test) – Galle, January 29 – February 2
- Sri Lanka vs Australia (2nd Test) – Galle, February 6-10
Conclusion: India’s Road to WTC Final
India’s chances of qualifying for the 2023-25 World Test Championship final are still very much in their hands, but their fate largely depends on the outcomes of their remaining matches against Australia and the performance of other competing teams. With the upcoming Tests in Melbourne and Sydney, the Indian team must focus on winning at least one match, if not both, to strengthen their position.
South Africa’s performance against Pakistan and the Sri Lanka vs Australia series will also be key in determining the final qualification standings. As India moves into this critical phase of the WTC cycle, fans can expect thrilling matches that will shape the future of Test cricket’s most prestigious event.
