Dubai: As the 2023-2025 World Test Championship (WTC) season enters its final stretch, India's hopes of securing a spot in the 2025 final at Lord's remain strong, following a significant 3-0 whitewash over New Zealand in October and a crucial win in Australia.
With just four matches remaining against the reigning WTC champions, Australia, India's path to the final is clear: win three of those remaining Tests, and they will be firmly in the running for a third consecutive appearance in the WTC final.
Currently, India sits at the top of the standings with 61.11% of possible points, and their best possible finish is 69.30%. The team’s prospects were boosted by a comprehensive performance in Perth, which saw both batsmen and bowlers step up, reaffirming their credentials for a spot at Lord's next year.
South Africa, who have been in excellent form, are currently second in the standings with 59.26% of possible points. Their impressive win over Sri Lanka has propelled them up the rankings, and with three key matches remaining, they have a strong chance of qualifying for the final.
If South Africa continues their winning streak, they are likely to secure a spot in the 2025 final, with a best possible finish of 69.44%.
Australia, the reigning champions, are in third place with 57.69% of possible points and still have six matches left, including a crucial home series against India. They need to win at least four of those matches to stay in contention for a spot at Lord's.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka, in fourth with 50% of possible points, will need to bounce back after their heavy loss to South Africa. Their remaining matches against South Africa and Australia are vital to their hopes of securing a top-two finish.
New Zealand, who had been in the mix after a historic series sweep in India, have seen their chances diminish after a loss to England in the first Test in Christchurch. They are now in fifth place, with their hopes of reaching the final hanging by a thread.
England, sitting in sixth with only 42.50% of possible points, are also in a tough spot and will need to make up ground quickly if they are to be in contention.
With the race for the final still wide open, India, South Africa, and Australia are currently the frontrunners, but the coming weeks will see plenty of twists as teams battle for crucial points in their remaining fixtures.
India’s ability to maintain their momentum in Australia will be crucial, while South Africa and Australia’s performances in their final matches will play a major role in deciding who makes it to Lord's next year.
