All eyes are on the WTC scenarios as several teams remain in contention for the ultimate Test mace, making the race increasingly interesting. But the question is, which teams can make it to the WTC final? Among the contenders, one team whose chances appear stronger than others is the Indian cricket team. Currently leading the WTC table, India will aim to capitalize on their momentum, having recently defeated Australia in 1st test game in Australia. With four more games to go to decide their fate, India is in a promising position. However, various scenarios could play out if they fail to secure a 5-0 or 4-0 victory. See a detailed understanding of how India can qualify for the upcoming WTC final.
World Test Championship scenario
Before the India vs New Zealand Test series, everything seemed straightforward for India. They needed to secure just four wins in total, and it was expected that they would comfortably dominate New Zealand with a 3-0 series victory. However, the results turned out differently, as it was the Kiwis who came out on top, thrashing the Indian team 3-0.
Now, the situation has completely changed. Although India won the first game against Australia by 295 runs at Perth, providing hope, there are still several games left. So, what do the scenarios say if India wins the series against Australia? Let’s see what could happen and how India can qualify for the WTC final.
India WTC qualification scenarios
| Scenario | Series Result | Impact on India WTC final qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Scenario | Series Result | India WTC qualifications scenarios |
| Scenario 1 | India win 5-0, 4-1, 4-0, or 3-0 | India qualifies directly without relying on other results. Australia likely eliminated from contention. |
| Scenario 2 | India win 3-1 | India qualifies unless South Africa beats Sri Lanka in the second Test. Even a draw between South Africa and Sri Lanka ensures India’s qualification. |
| Scenario 3 | India win 3-2 | India needs Sri Lanka to secure at least a draw against Australia in the upcoming 2-match Test series. |
| Scenario 4 | India draw 2-2 | India must rely on South Africa beating Sri Lanka 2-0, followed by Sri Lanka winning the 2-match Test series against Australia. |
India’s qualification for the WTC final depends on their performance in the ongoing series against Australia, surely, and the results of other teams. If India wins the series 5-0, 4-1, 4-0, or 3-0, they qualify directly, with Australia likely eliminated. A 3-1 win requires South Africa not to beat Sri Lanka in the second Test to secure India’s spot. If the series ends 3-2 in India’s favor, they will need Sri Lanka to at least draw against Australia in the upcoming Test series. A 2-2 draw will reduce India’s chances a little further, making it essential for South Africa to win their series 2-0 against Sri Lanka in the ongoing series and for Sri Lanka to beat Australia 2-0 in their upcoming home matches.
Updated WTC Table
| Pos | Team | Played | Won | Lost | Draw | Ded | Points | PCT |
| 1 | India | 15 | 9 | 5 | 1 | 2 | 110 | 61.11 |
| 2 | South Africa | 9 | 5 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 64 | 59.26 |
| 3 | Australia | 13 | 8 | 4 | 1 | 10 | 90 | 57.69 |
| 4 | New Zealand | 12 | 6 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 72 | 50 |
| 4 | Sri Lanka | 10 | 5 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 60 | 50 |
| 6 | England | 20 | 10 | 9 | 1 | 19 | 105 | 43.75 |
| 7 | Pakistan | 10 | 4 | 6 | 0 | 8 | 40 | 33.33 |
| 8 | West Indies | 10 | 2 | 6 | 2 | 0 | 32 | 26.67 |
| 9 | Bangladesh | 11 | 3 | 8 | 0 | 3 | 33 | 25 |
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