NEW DELHI: The prospect of an India vs Pakistan final in the World Test Championship (WTC) remains a tantalizing idea for cricket fans, but the likelihood of it happening has significantly dwindled. Pakistan’s historic defeat to Bangladesh in Rawalpindi has dealt a major blow to their already slim chances of making it to the WTC final. While India remains one of the favorites, Pakistan’s path to the final now appears increasingly difficult.
Currently sitting eighth on the WTC points table, Pakistan has won just two of their six matches, leaving them with a win percentage of 30.56%. To keep their hopes alive, Pakistan must win all eight of their remaining Tests, a daunting task given the strength of their upcoming opponents, including England, West Indies, and South Africa, with a particularly tough series against the Proteas in South Africa.
In contrast, India and Australia remain firmly positioned as the frontrunners to contest the WTC final next year. India leads the standings with six wins in nine matches and a win percentage of 68.52%, while Australia is close behind with eight wins in 12 matches and a percentage of 62.50%. The upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year will be decisive for both teams as they look to secure their spots in the final.
Bangladesh’s recent victory over Pakistan has moved them to sixth place on the points table, with two wins in five matches and a win percentage of 40.00%. Meanwhile, England’s recent five-wicket win over Sri Lanka has catapulted them to fourth place, pushing Sri Lanka down to fifth.
Although the dream of an India vs Pakistan final remains alive, Pakistan’s road to the WTC final is now a near-impossible challenge given their current form and position.
