The final stage of the 2021–2023 World Test Championship has started. With a 419-run victory over the West Indies in the second Test in Adelaide, Australia has solidified its position atop the standings. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s aspirations have all but been dashed by England’s victory in Rawalpindi. However, nothing has been completed yet. In Multan, Pakistan is struggling to maintain its dreams. The winners of four series will advance to the WTC Finals 2023. Along with Australia vs. South Africa, matches between West Indies, Pakistan, and England, as well as India vs. Bangladesh, will determine the final two slots.
Let’s see what is happening in WTC?
Australia Firms Top Position at WTC with Cleansweep over West Indies
With 75% points, Australia is presently atop the WTC points chart. They are the top contenders to make it to the WTC final. Australia has increased their advantage with a straightforward victory against the West Indies in the second Test in Adelaide.
The Australians still have seven games left.
However, the outcome will be decided by the upcoming South African series. Australia will guarantee its spot in the championship game if they triumph. However, if SA wins the series in Australia, they will unseat Pat Cummins & Co. as the number one team.
Australia’s four-match away tour of India will be their biggest test, though. Australia’s win percentage will decline to 63.16 if they win all four of their home Test matches but lose all four against India.
Rest of World in WTC
England is essentially eliminated from the competition after eight losses in the current cycle.
Although Stokes’ team is all but out, their victory on Monday boosts their win percentage.
Pakistan’s hopes of making the finals were also hurt by the loss. Pakistan still has two games left to play against England. After that, Pakistan will take on the reigning champions, New Zealand. If they win four games, they will rise to 61.9, and if other clubs lose their games, that might also be sufficient. We could see an India-Pak final in the WTC if both countries win their remaining games.
India’s Position at WTC: Will India Reach WTC Finals?
Even though India is currently in fourth place, its future is not entirely in their own hands. The following Test match for Team India is against Bangladesh.
India will achieve 52% points with a 2-0 victory.
The most crucial series is going to be against Australia. In a four-match series, India will play host to current leaders Australia. India might move up to second place with a 4-0 or 3-0 victory if England defeats Pakistan.
Additionally, India will have to rely on New Zealand defeating Sri Lanka in their two-match series. Their win percentage will increase to 68.06 if they win each of their remaining six games.
