The race for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 Final has become even more intense. As of now, only four teams remain in contention, including India. While Team India’s path ahead is quite challenging, it is still possible for them to secure a spot in the final. With the third Test of the India-Australia series still a few days away, let’s look at how India can qualify for the WTC Final. Will India need to rely on other teams, or can they make it on their own?
Three Matches Still Left in the India vs Australia Series
The five-match Test series between India and Australia is underway, with two matches already completed. Both teams have won one match each, leaving three matches to be played. These remaining matches will largely determine the WTC Final lineup.
Scenario 1: India Wins the Series 4-1
If India wins the remaining three matches and secures a 4-1 victory in the series, no other team can stop them from reaching the WTC Final. This scenario is straightforward: India must win all three remaining matches to guarantee their spot in the final.
Scenario 2: Two Wins and One Draw
If India wins two out of the three remaining matches and draws one, they can still qualify for the final without relying on other teams. This would require India to avoid losing any of the remaining matches. A 3-1 series result would comfortably take India to the WTC Final.
Scenario 3: Two Wins and One Loss
If India wins two of the three matches but loses one, the series result will be 3-2 in India’s favor. However, in this case, India will need help from Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka must ensure that Australia either loses or draws at least one match in their upcoming two-match series. This would keep India’s PCT (Percentage of Points) at 58.8, higher than Australia’s 57, allowing India to qualify.
Scenario 4: Series Ends in a 2-2 Draw
If India and Australia each win one match and one match ends in a draw, the series will end in a 2-2 tie. In this situation, India will need Sri Lanka to defeat Australia 1-0 or 2-0 in their two-match series. This would push India’s PCT to 55.3, higher than Australia’s 53.5, ensuring India’s qualification.
India Aims to Qualify on Its Own Merit
Among the four scenarios, the first two are most favorable for India, as they allow the team to qualify for the WTC Final through their own performance without depending on other teams. The remaining two scenarios, however, require Sri Lanka to perform exceptionally well against Australia, which, while not impossible, will be a tough task.
Team India will undoubtedly aim to secure their place in the WTC Final through strong performances in the upcoming matches, avoiding reliance on external factors.