India, facing a likely draw in the Kanpur Test against Bangladesh, find themselves in a challenging position following Sri Lanka’s recent series victory over New Zealand. The outcome of that series has shifted the balance, putting additional pressure on India as they aims to maintain their standing. With the Kanpur Test hanging in the balance and Sri Lanka’s success boosting their own credentials, India now has to regroup and strategize carefully to navigate this crucial phase of their campaign.
India’s Position Uncertain After Sri Lanka’s Series Triumph:
On Sunday, Sri Lanka achieved a remarkable third consecutive Test victory, securing a 2-0 whitewash over New Zealand in Galle. This historic win mirrors their 2009 home success and was capped off with a dominant innings and 154-run triumph on the fourth day of the second Test. The victory significantly strengthens Sri Lanka’s chances of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship final at Lord’s next June.
In contrast, India finds itself in a challenging situation, with two days of the Kanpur Test against Bangladesh washed out due to rain. As a result, the draw seems likely, leaving India’s campaign for the championship in a precarious position.
India currently leads the World Test Championship (WTC) standings with a PCT of 71.67, having won seven out of 10 matches. This includes their recent victory in the first Test against Bangladesh in Chennai. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka’s impressive 2-0 series win against New Zealand has propelled them to third place with a PCT of 55.56, just behind Australia, who hold second place with a PCT of 62.50.
Could Sri Lanka Block India’s WTC Final Berth?
India entered the Kanpur Test against Bangladesh as strong contenders for the World Test Championship final next year, aiming for their third consecutive appearance. A victory in the second Test would have positioned them just three wins away from securing a spot, with eight matches still remaining. This opportunity set them up as clear favorites to clinch the qualification with several matches left to play.
A drawn Test in Kanpur could jeopardize India’s chances, as they would then need to sweep New Zealand 3-0 in the upcoming home series next month and secure at least two wins in the five-match Border-Gavaskar series in Australia later this year to keep their World Test Championship final hopes alive.
Sri Lanka is scheduled to play two Tests in South Africa and two more at home against Australia in their remaining World Test Championship matches. A clean sweep against the Proteas would significantly enhance their chances of reaching the final. However, this scenario seems unlikely, as Sri Lanka has only achieved three victories in 17 matches during their seven tours to South Africa, despite having famously whitewashed the hosts 2-0 in 2019.
If Sri Lanka manages to secure a 1-1 draw in South Africa and sweeps Australia at home, their percentage of points will rise to 61.54. Meanwhile, if South Africa defeats both Bangladesh and Pakistan 2-0, they will achieve a PCT of 61.11. This scenario sets the stage for a potential final between Sri Lanka and South Africa, contingent on Australia winning the Border-Gavaskar series against India 4-1. Regardless, even a 0-4 loss for India will still secure Sri Lanka’s spot in the final.
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