The Indian team faced a crushing 184-run defeat against Australia in the fourth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, dealing a significant blow to its chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. However, India’s hopes are not completely dashed yet. Following this loss at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), India is now in third place in the WTC points table, while Australia has moved up to second place.
South Africa Secures Final Spot; Fight for Second Place Continues
South Africa, currently at the top of the table, sealed their spot in the WTC final after defeating Pakistan on Sunday. Now, the battle for the second position remains intense. Australia appears to have the upper hand and is close to securing a place in the final, while India, which has reached the WTC final in the last two cycles, faces a tough road ahead.
India’s 13-Year Wait Ends in Melbourne Defeat
Chasing a target of 340 runs, India’s second innings collapsed for just 155 runs. Despite starting their chase earlier in the day, India couldn’t survive even three full sessions as all 11 batsmen returned to the pavilion. This marked India’s first Test defeat in Melbourne in 13 years, with the last loss occurring in 2011. Australia now leads the five-match series 2-1, with the final Test set to be played in Sydney from January 3.
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India Falls Behind After Victory in Perth
India had begun the Australian tour with a win in Perth after suffering a home series defeat to New Zealand. However, the team lost the next Test in Adelaide and drew the Brisbane Test, leaving the series tied at 1-1. The loss in Melbourne has now put India behind 1-2 in the series.
India’s Path to the Final Becomes Difficult
Following this defeat, India now depends on the results of other teams and must secure a win in the Sydney Test to stay in the race. A draw or loss would eliminate India from contention. Under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy, India has lost five out of its last six Test matches, including a 0-3 series loss against New Zealand, and defeats in Adelaide and Melbourne.
To keep their hopes alive, India must win the Sydney Test and level the series 2-2.
Australia’s Upcoming Fixtures Could Be Crucial
After the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Australia will play a two-match Test series against Sri Lanka. If Sri Lanka defeats Australia in that series, it could create complications for the Aussies.
If the Border-Gavaskar Trophy ends in a draw, India’s PCT (points percentage) will be 55.26, while Australia’s PCT could drop to 54.26 if they lose to Sri Lanka. However, if Australia manages to draw one Test against Sri Lanka, their PCT will improve to 56.48.
For India, a series loss to Australia would end their WTC final dreams.
