WTC 2023 Final: What are the qualification scenarios for India?

The second cycle of the World Test Championship is nearing its conclusion, and India’s 2-0 victory in Bangladesh has prompted major movement in the points table. A look at how the leading candidates for the final are ranked. India’s 2-0 victory in Bangladesh propels them into the second position, displacing South Africa, which fell to league toppers Australia in Brisbane last week. India began the series with 52.08%, however, 24 points won during the series increased it to 58.93%. Meanwhile, South Africa dropped from 60% to 54.55%. Given how teams are currently ranked, they would need to finish over 55% to have any chance of making the final, and the three best teams in the race are Australia, India, and South Africa, all of whom have games remaining.

What does India need to do to qualify for the final?

If Australia wins the current series against South Africa 3-0, all India needs is a series win against Australia at home by any margin. However, if South Africa wins in Australia and then sweeps the West Indies 2-0, India would need to win three Tests or win two and draw the other two against Australia to end above South Africa’s 60%.

Read more: All you need to know about the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup

Who are the other contenders?

Australia will be through regardless of the result in India next year if they win both of their remaining Tests against South Africa. However, if they win one and lose one against the Proteas, they will require at least five points from the India visit – a win, two draws, or a tie will suffice, even if South Africa sweeps the West Indies 2-0 at home. In the improbable event that they lose the series to South Africa, Australia would require at least a win and a draw from the four Tests in India.

South Africa was sitting comfortably after winning the first Test at Lord’s in the English summer, but three mediocre batting efforts have pushed them out of the top two. To avoid relying on other teams, they would need to escape a series defeat in Australia and then overcome the West Indies 2-0, as only one of India or Australia can beat them on points as they meet each other. However, if they lose the series in Australia, they will be dependent on the India-Australia series scoreline to advance.