WTC Final Scenario: Here's how India can qualify for the World Test Championship final after the Gabba draw

By Karan Rawat Dec 18, 2024 6:18 PM   IST  

The Indian tailenders showed a fighting spirit, which helped the visitors end the third test against Australia at the Gabba in a draw. It has left the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy at 1-1 with two matches left to play. Now, these two teams will lock horns in the fourth match at the MCG on December 26, which will be the Boxing Day Test.

India were under so much pressure, but the lower order helped India to avoid the follow-on, which made a big effect on the result. Australia made a bold declaration on Day 5, but the rain had something different to offer.

The bad light and rain had the last laugh, and the game ended with a draw. It must be a confidence booster result for the Indians after the way their top order failed in the first innings. This draw has certainly helped India to stay in the race for the World Test Championship 2023-25. But still, the way to the final is very difficult.

WTC Final 2023-25: Here's how India can qualify for the World Test Championship Final after the Gabba Draw

India would accept the result of the third test because at one stage they were on the way to losing the game. That would have been the end of roads for Rohit Sharma and his men for the WTC final. But after this draw, India have two more games left in this cycle. They will play two matches against Australia in Melbourne and Sydney.

After this draw, India have retained their third position on the WTC cycle with a percentage of 55.89. South Africa (63.33) are at the top while Australia (58.89) are on the table. The final fight is between these two teams. If India can sneak past Australia in the last two games and win those matches. They will take their percentage to 60.52, and Australia will be out even if they win against Sri Lanka 2-0.

That means India and South Africa will qualify for the WTC final. However, if India win one and draw one, they will jump to the second place above Australia. In that case, India need Sri Lanka to draw one of two tests against Australia.

But if India lose one of two remaining matches, then Sri Lanka beating Australia 2-0 will be the only way for India to reach. Meanwhile, South Africa have two tests against Pakistan. If they win one game, they will qualify. But if they lose both matches, then India need one win against Australia to qualify.

Also Read: Is playing at no. 5 hurting Rohit Sharma's game? Cheteshwar Pujara reveals reason behind Rohit's struggles

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