India's chances of making it to the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2023-2025 have taken a hit following a home series defeat to New Zealand. This loss marks India's first home Test series defeat since 2012.
India lost the series 0-3 after a 25-run defeat to New Zealand in the third Test. This series win is the first for New Zealand in India since their tours began in 1955-56. New Zealand also became the only team to secure a 3-0 series win in India.
Before the New Zealand series, India led the WTC standings with a percentage (PCT) of 68.06. However, after multiple losses, India's PCT dropped to 62.82, while Australia follows closely at 62.50 and Sri Lanka at 55.56.
After the third Test in Mumbai, India's PCT has further decreased to 58.33, placing them second below Australia in the WTC points table.
India faces a critical series in the 2023-2025 WTC cycle, with five matches included in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Following the clean sweep loss, India needs to win four of the five Tests against Australia. Their final chances may also rely on other series outcomes.
India will be keeping an eye on South Africa, currently fourth with a PCT of 54.17, with two home Tests each against Sri Lanka and Pakistan. Sri Lanka, ranked third with a PCT of 55.56, will face a challenging series against South Africa as they aim for their first ICC final appearance in over a decade.
With many important series yet to be played, the WTC cycle's final outcome remains uncertain. Teams must show consistency and handle pressure to secure a spot in the final at Lord’s.
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