NEW DELHI: India’s hopes of constructing it to the World Test Championship (WTC) Final face a steep problem because the Border-Gavaskar Trophy enters its last stretch.
With the 5-match sequence presently degree at 1-1, any slip-up may have important penalties on their qualification chances.
In the climate-affected third Test on the Gabba, persistent rain denied each groups a consequence, with Australia setting India a goal of 275 runs earlier than rain pressured play to be deserted with India at 8/0.
The drawn match leaves India needing robust performances within the remaining two Tests to take care of their WTC Final aspirations.
However, if India lose the sequence both 1-2 or 1-3, they will end the WTC cycle with a proportion factors tally (PCT) of 51.75%—not sufficient to safe a spot within the high two of the WTC standings.
This situation would eradicate India from rivalry, with Australia and South Africa cementing their positions above them.
In the present standings (If India loses BGT):
- Australia have been constant on this WTC cycle and can seemingly retain their spot within the last, even if they lose their upcoming matches in opposition to Sri Lanka.
- South Africa, although inconsistent, have enough buffer to remain forward of India even if they falter of their sequence in opposition to Pakistan.
How Sri Lanka Could Surpass India?
The equation turns into extra difficult with Sri Lanka’s involvement. If Sri Lanka win their upcoming sequence in opposition to Australia 2-0, they will climb to a PCT of 53.85%, overtaking India and securing a spot within the WTC Final.
To keep away from elimination, India should keep away from defeat within the ongoing sequence. Stronger contributions from the highest order, an improved spin technique, and health readability for key bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah are important.
With the WTC Final at stake, India not solely must concentrate on their very own efficiency however will even depend on different outcomes falling of their favour. Anything lower than a sequence draw or win will depart Rohit Sharma and his males watching the WTC Final from the sidelines.
