Wed Oct 16 03:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Team India on the Brink of WTC Final Qualification
**Bengaluru, October 16:** India’s chances of making it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025 are looking brighter than ever. A 3-0 clean sweep against New Zealand in the ongoing three-match Test series would put them in a commanding position for qualification. However, they would still need to win at least one match against Australia to secure their spot in the final.
The first Test of the series, which began today at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, faced a rain delay, resulting in the cancellation of the first session. The importance of this series for the Indian team, led by Rohit Sharma, cannot be overstated. A win against New Zealand would solidify their position at the top of the WTC standings.
A loss or a draw in the series, however, could significantly impact their qualification chances. Currently, India is leading the WTC points table with 98 points and a winning percentage of 74.24%, having won 8 out of their 11 matches played.
Australia, at the second position, is trailing with 8 wins and 3 losses in their 11 matches. The final of the WTC is scheduled for June 11-15, 2025 at Lord’s, with June 16 reserved as a reserve day. This will be the first time the final will be held at Lord’s.
To qualify for the WTC final, India needs to win at least four out of their eight Test matches. A win against New Zealand and a crucial victory against Australia would put them on the path to defending their title.
First Piper 