What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
NEW DELHI: India’s aspirations of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final have been significantly jeopardized following their 184-run defeat to Australia in the Boxing Day Test at Melbourne.
This loss has reduced India’s point percentage (PCT) from 55.89% to 52.77%, placing them third on the WTC points table.
To keep their WTC final hopes alive, India must win the upcoming fifth Test in Sydney, which would elevate their PCT to 55.26%. However, even with a victory, India’s qualification would hinge on the outcomes of other series. Specifically, they would need Australia to either lose or draw in their subsequent matches against Sri Lanka.
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A 2-2 series draw between India and Australia, coupled with two draws between Australia and Sri Lanka, would result in both India and Australia having identical PCTs of 55.26%. In such a scenario, India could qualify for the WTC final by having more series wins three compared to Australia’s two.
Conversely, if Australia secures a victory in the Sydney Test, their PCT would rise to 57.84%, effectively securing their spot in the WTC final and eliminating India’s chances.
Adding to India’s challenges are the recent calls for the retirement of senior players, including captain Rohit Sharma and veteran batsman Virat Kohli, following their underwhelming performances in the series.
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Rohit has managed only one fifty in his last 15 Test innings. Meanwhile, Kohli, despite a century in Perth, has struggled with nine single-digit scores in 17 innings this season.
Former cricketers have suggested that another poor performance in Sydney could prompt Rohit to consider retirement. Many advocate for the inclusion of new players for the upcoming England tour, signalling potential changes in team leadership and strategy.
Thus, the upcoming Test in Sydney is pivotal for India, not only to keep their WTC final hopes alive but also to address the growing concerns regarding the form and future of their senior players.
A victory would provide a lifeline in the championship race, while a loss could trigger significant changes within the team structure. The stakes are high, making the Sydney Test a defining moment for Indian cricket.
