5 Teams Out of WTC Final Race: India, Australia Lead as Finalists

As the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle progresses, the race for the final has become more defined. With five teams, including Pakistan, now effectively out of the running, the battle for the final spot is narrowing down to a few contenders. The current points table indicates that India, Australia, South Africa, and Sri Lanka are still in strong positions, while New Zealand and England’s chances are fading fast.

Pakistan, West Indies, and Bangladesh Out of Contention

Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the West Indies have found themselves on the brink of elimination. Sitting at the bottom of the points table, these teams are no longer in the running for a spot in the WTC Final. Despite Pakistan having three matches left in the cycle, even a clean sweep in those games won’t boost them to a winning percentage high enough to cut. Their current win percentage of 25.93 makes qualification impossible, marking the third consecutive WTC cycle where Pakistan has fallen short of the final.

Similarly, Bangladesh and the West Indies are out of the race. Both teams have performed poorly in their WTC campaigns and are now mathematically out of contention, leaving their fans disappointed yet again.

England and New Zealand’s Slim Chances

England and New Zealand, both known for their competitive cricket, are still technically in the race but face a series of complex scenarios and must-win situations to make it to the final.

New Zealand, currently in fourth place, has a tough task ahead. They are scheduled to play five more matches in the current cycle, two against India and three at home against England. Even if they manage to win all five games, their win percentage will only reach 64.29%, leaving them in a precarious position. With other teams like India, Australia, Sri Lanka, and South Africa all capable of reaching or surpassing that percentage, New Zealand’s path to the final is fraught with difficulties. Losing even one match could eliminate them from the running altogether.

England’s situation isn’t much better. Currently fifth in the standings, England has just four matches left to play in this WTC cycle. Even if they win all four, they still cannot reach the 60% win mark needed to compete for a spot in the final. Like New Zealand, England’s chances have now boiled down to slim hopes and near-impossible scenarios.

South Africa and Sri Lanka Still in the Mix

South Africa has quietly emerged as a serious contender to challenge both India and Australia for a spot in the final. With a strong run of performances, South Africa is well-placed to cause an upset in the current standings. Should India or Australia falter in their upcoming games, South Africa could seize the opportunity and climb into the top two spots.

Sri Lanka, currently third, remains a solid contender for the WTC final as well. Though they have fewer matches left, their consistent form has kept them within striking distance of India and Australia. Their upcoming performances will be crucial to determining whether they can disrupt the favorites’ plans.

India and Australia Lead the Charge

India, currently atop the WTC standings, still faces significant challenges in the remainder of the cycle. With seven matches left to play, India must win at least four to secure their position in the top two. A recent loss to New Zealand has put some pressure on India, but with their depth and talent, they remain a favorite to reach the final. However, any slip-ups could open the door for South Africa or Sri Lanka to capitalize.

Australia is another strong contender, currently holding the second spot. They have consistently performed well throughout the WTC cycle and will be looking to cement their place in the final with solid performances in the remaining matches.