Sun Oct 27 10:18:59 UTC 2024: ## India’s WTC Hopes Dented by New Zealand Series Loss: South Africa Emerges as Challenger

India’s dominance in Test cricket at home has been shattered, with New Zealand securing a historic 2-0 series win in India, putting their World Test Championship (WTC) final qualification hopes in jeopardy.

Following a series of disappointing performances, India’s point percentage dropped from 68.06 to 62.82, leaving them precariously ahead of Australia by just 0.32 points. The loss also ended India’s streak of winning 18 consecutive Test series at home, marking their first defeat in 12 years.

This setback opens the door for other contenders, with South Africa emerging as the most likely team to overtake India in the race for the WTC25 Final. They currently stand fifth with a PCT of 47.62 and have a favorable schedule, including Tests against Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

Meanwhile, New Zealand, following their historic win, has climbed to fourth with a PCT of 50, making them a potential contender for the final spot. They will need to secure victories in their remaining matches, including the final Test against India in Mumbai and three against England at home.

Sri Lanka sits in third with a PCT of 55.56, while Pakistan’s victory against England has boosted them to seventh with a PCT of 33.33. England remains in sixth with a PCT of 40.79.

India, despite the setbacks, are still in contention for the final. To secure their spot without relying on other teams’ results, they need to win four out of their remaining six matches, including the final Test against New Zealand and three against Australia.

The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia has now become even more crucial for India’s WTC aspirations.

Read More