India's Qualification for World Test Championship Final in Jeopardy: A Look at the Scenario Following a Devastating Loss to New Zealand in 1st Test

New Delhi: The New Zealand cricket team put on a stellar performance and emerged victorious over the Indian team by 8 wickets in the first Test match. The match, held at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, saw the New Zealand side dominate right from the start, leveling the series at 1-1 with their win. With this defeat, India now trails in the series and also risks facing challenges in their bid to reach the final of the World Test Championship. Here's a look at how India can secure their spot in the final despite this setback.

Talking about the match, the Indian team was all out for 46 runs in the first innings, after which the Indian team gave a befitting reply in the second innings and was all out for 462 runs. The Indian team was successful in gaining a lead of 106 runs after trailing by 356 runs in the first innings. In such a situation, to win, the Indian team needed to take 10 wickets on the fifth day and New Zealand had to score 107 runs, in which it was successful.

What is the current status of the WTC points table?

India is currently at the top of the World Test Championship points table. Team India has won 9 out of the 12 matches played so far while losing 3. India has a 68.06-point percentage and 98 points, which puts it in first place. However, Australia is in second place with a 62.50 points percentage after winning 8 of its 12 matches. Sri Lanka is also not far behind with 55.56 points percentage. After this, England (43.06 points percentage), South Africa (38.89 points percentage) and New Zealand (37.50 points percentage) are in fourth, fifth and sixth positions respectively. At present, India, South Africa, Australia and Sri Lanka can reach the final mainly. This defeat definitely increased Team India’s difficulty.

How can Team India reach the WTC Final? (Team India WTC Final Scenario):

To reach the final of the World Test Championship, any team must have at least 60 PCT. India has been badly affected after the defeat against New Zealand but hopes are still alive. The Indian cricket team will now have to work harder to reach the final. The team now has 7 Test matches left and India will have to win at least 4 of them and draw one only then will their place be confirmed. In such a situation, India will have to win the remaining 2 matches against New Zealand as well as win at least 2 out of 5 and draw one against Australia.