India's recent 3-0 loss to New Zealand has significantly altered the landscape for qualifications in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. With 18 Tests remaining in this cycle, several teams are vying for a top-two finish, crucial for a place at Lord's next June.
Currently, India holds a 58.33% points tally, but is at risk of missing out on the final if they cannot secure a stunning 4-0 series victory against Australia away. Achieving this result would elevate India’s percentage to 65.79%, just ahead of New Zealand's possible maximum of 64.29% if they win all three matches against England at home.
While winning all matches is ideal, India's fate might rely on other teams’ performances as well. For instance, scenarios could allow India to qualify even if they lose a couple of matches, depending on results from key series involving New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia.
New Zealand (54.55%) has its fate tied to a clean sweep against England, while South Africa (54.17%) holds strong potential with favourable home matches against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Australia (62.50%) aims for consistent results to secure its place alongside India. Sri Lanka (55.56%) also remains a contender, needing victories against similarly positioned teams.
In this unpredictable race, every match counts as teams battle for the coveted spot in the WTC final.