India’s Road to the WTC Final: What Lies Ahead After the 3rd Test Draw

The Indian cricket team’s journey to the World Test Championship (WTC) Final became more challenging after their third Test against Australia ended in a rain-affected draw in Brisbane on Wednesday. Persistent rain delays and poor light on Day 5 forced the umpires and captains to call off the match during the final session. With the series now tied at 1-1, India faces stiff competition from South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Australia in the race to secure a spot in the WTC Final.

India’s Qualification Scenarios

India’s chances of qualifying for the WTC Final depend on their performance in the remaining matches and results in other ongoing series. Here’s how India can book their spot:

1. India Wins Both Remaining Tests
   If Rohit Sharma and his team secure victories in both of the upcoming matches against Australia, they will automatically qualify for the WTC Final, regardless of results in other series.
2. Series Ends 2-1 in India’s Favor
   If India wins one of the two remaining matches and the series ends 2-1:
   • Sri Lanka must either defeat Australia 1-0 in their two-match series or ensure the series ends in a 1-1 draw for India to qualify.
3. Series Ends 2-2
   If India and Australia win one match each in the remaining two Tests, the series will end 2-2, and the qualification path becomes more complex. For India to qualify:
   • Sri Lanka must win their series 2-0 against Australia.
   • Alternatively, Pakistan must lose at least one game in their series against South Africa.
4. Australia Wins Both Matches Against Sri Lanka
   Even if Australia wins both games against Sri Lanka, India can still qualify if Pakistan defeats South Africa 2-0 in their Test series.

Recap of the Third Test

The third Test in Brisbane saw several interruptions due to rain and poor light, leaving both teams frustrated. The match ended in a draw with India at 8/0, chasing a target of 275 runs.

• Australia’s Bold Declaration: Australian skipper Pat Cummins made a surprising declaration at 89/7 in their second innings, setting India a challenging target with over 50 overs left in the final session. However, rain and bad light forced an early tea, denying a result.
• India’s Bowling Prowess: Jasprit Bumrah led India’s attack with a brilliant spell of 3/18 in six overs. Mohammed Siraj (2/35) and Akash Deep (2/28) supported him effectively.
• India’s First Innings Struggle: India were bowled out for 260 in response to Australia’s 445. Resuming Day 5 at 252/9, India added just eight runs before being dismissed.

The rain-affected match means the series remains tied at 1-1 as both teams prepare for the penultimate Test in Melbourne.

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What’s Next for Team India?

The final two Tests of the Border-Gavaskar series are now crucial for India’s chances of making it to the WTC Final. A dominant performance in Melbourne and the final Test could pave the way for India’s qualification. However, they will also need to keep an eye on results from other key series involving South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan.

India’s road to the WTC Final is filled with challenges, but their ability to perform under pressure has proven to be a game-changer in the past. Cricket fans worldwide will be eager to see how the thrilling race unfolds in the coming weeks.