The third Test match between India and Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane ended in a draw due to persistent rain, leaving India’s qualification for the WTC final hanging in the balance. The series is now level at 1-1, with both teams earning four points, bringing India’s points percentage (PCT) to 55.88%, just behind Australia’s 58.89%.
How can India qualify for the WTC Final?
India’s path to the WTC final has become more challenging but remains mathematically possible. To secure a spot in the final, India must win both of their remaining Tests against Australia in Melbourne and Sydney. A 3-1 series victory would give India a PCT of 60.52%, ensuring qualification even if Australia wins their series against Sri Lanka.
However, if India wins one and loses one of the remaining matches, their qualification will depend on Sri Lanka defeating Australia 1-0 in their series. A draw in one of the remaining matches would require Sri Lanka to hold Australia to at least one draw in their two-Test series.
South Africa currently leads the WTC standings with a PCT of 63.33%, making their path to the final clearer. They need just one win from their remaining two matches against Pakistan to secure their spot.
India’s journey to the WTC final is fraught with challenges, requiring near-flawless performances and favourable outcomes from other series. The team must bring their best game to the remaining Tests to keep their WTC hopes alive.
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