Team India came up with an extraordinary performance in the just-concluded Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Down Under, to successfully retain the crown after winning the four-Test series, 2-1. It has also taken India atop the table in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship.
undefined
Meanwhile, the race for the top-two is heating up for as many as five sides. On the same note, we analyse the contenders' scenarios for the final spots, as the road to Lord's draws closer.
undefined
However, it is to be noted that the qualification format for the WTC was changed by the International Cricket Council last year, following the COVID impact on numerous series. Presently, the point percentage is taken into calculation for qualification, rather than the points itself.
undefined
India: The Indians are currently on 71.7%, with a series in hand. India would be aiming to win its last series, against England, at home, which gets underway from February 5. India has to win by a margin of two games, or better, in the four-Test series. Failing to do so would make it dependent on other results, while a 0-3 or 0-4 loss would completely dent its chances.
undefined
New Zealand: New Zealand is the only side to have so-called completed its quota of matches in the tournament and has 70% PCT, besides staying in the second place. While it has nothing to do now, it will have to depend on the other results. If England wins more than five matches, and South Africa wins by a margin of two games against Australia, the Kiwis would have to squander its place. However, if New Zealand's home series against Bangladesh is confirmed in the meantime, it would bolster its chances.
undefined
Australia: The Kangaroos is on 69.2% and is currently placed third. As of now, it has only a series to go, and that is away to South Africa. The Aussies will have to win the three-Test series by a margin of two games, while any win for South Africa would end the former's chances. A draw, however, would make it rely on other results.
undefined
England: The English currently possess 65.2% and are placed fourth. While the side is already a game up in the two-Test series, in Sri Lanka, its best chance is to win that and beat India by a margin of 3-0 or 4-0. Any other result would make it rely upon different results.
undefined
South Africa: The last team in contention is Proteas, with 40% and placed fifth. As for its chances, it's simple. It has to clean sweep Australia and also away to Pakistan. Furthermore, it also has to expect England not to win its matches against Lanka and India.
undefined