What’s Next for India in the WTC Final Dream After a Draw at the Gabba?

The Gabba Test was a major disappointment for both fans and players, as heavy rain disruptions led to a lack of significant action. With India set a target by Australia, every Indian fan couldn’t help but reminisce about the historic Gabba victory. However, rain interrupted the match, and the remaining day was called off, resulting in a draw and leveling the series 1-1, moving the contest to the Boxing Day Test. Now, the focus shifts to the road map for India’s qualification in the World Test Championship, as outlined by the current standings in the WTC table.

India’s Road to Qualification: 

Currently, the series is tied 1-1 with two matches remaining. For India to qualify for the World Test Championship Final, they need to win the next two games, securing a 3-1 series win. Additionally, South Africa must lose their first Test against Pakistan, which will help India stay at the top of the standings.

If India wins the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2-1, they will qualify as long as the Sri Lanka vs Australia series ends in a 1-1 draw.

If the BGT series ends in a 2-2 draw, India can still qualify if Sri Lanka defeats Australia by either 1-0 or 2-0.

If India loses the remaining two Tests and the series ends 3-1 in favor of Australia, their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship Final will be effectively over. A 3-1 loss would result in a significant drop in points, and with other teams like South Africa and Australia still in the race, India would miss out on a spot in the final at Lord's.

Australia Road to Qualification:

Australia's qualification for the World Test Championship Final depends on a few scenarios. If they win the remaining matches and secure a 3-1 series victory, a 1-1 draw in the Sri Lanka vs Australia series will help them qualify.

If Australia wins the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2-1, they must then win 1-0 or 2-0 in their series against Sri Lanka to qualify.

However, if Australia loses the series 1-3 or 1-2, they will need to win their series against Sri Lanka by 2-0, while also hoping that South Africa loses 0-1 against Pakistan for qualification.

This is the road map for Australia's path to qualifying for the World Test Championship Final.

South Africa Qualification Chances

For South Africa, qualification to the World Test Championship Final is largely in their hands. If they defeat Pakistan 1-0 or 2-0, they will be the first team to qualify for the final at Lord's. However, if they lose any of the upcoming Test matches, they will have to rely on India losing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) series and Australia losing their series against Sri Lanka.

Currently, South Africa has a relatively easier path to qualification, and they are expected to be the first team to secure a spot in the final. That said, they must remain cautious. If they lose both of their Tests against Pakistan, their chances of qualification will drop significantly, reducing their chances by 50%.