Will India meet Pakistan in World Test Championship final?

Will India meet Pakistan in World Test Championship final?

Although the possibility of an India vs Pakistan World Test Championship (WTC) final remains theoretically feasible, recent outcomes have made it increasingly unlikely. Pakistan's historic defeat to Bangladesh in Rawalpindi has further diminished their already slim chances of reaching the WTC final. With India among the favourites to advance to the final again, a clash between these two rivals would have been highly anticipated. However, Pakistan's route to the final now looks more daunting than ever.

Currently, Pakistan is in eighth place on the WTC points table, having secured just two wins in six matches and a winning percentage of 30.56. This sharp decline in form, particularly in red-ball cricket, means they face a considerable challenge if they hope to qualify for the final.

Pakistan still has eight Tests remaining in the current WTC cycle, and to have a realistic chance of reaching the final, they would need to win all of these matches. This will be a tough task, as they will be up against strong opponents, including England, the West Indies, and South Africa, with the series against the Proteas being played away from home.

Meanwhile, India and Australia remain the frontrunners for a potential rematch in the WTC final next year. Both teams lead the standings with significant advantages. India tops the table with six wins from nine matches and a winning percentage of 68.52, while defending champions Australia are just behind with eight wins from 12 matches and a percentage of 62.50. The forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy later this year will be crucial for both teams as they aim to secure their places in the final.

Bangladesh's recent triumph over Pakistan has elevated them to sixth place in the points table, with two wins from five matches and a winning percentage of 40.00, marking a notable improvement in their Test cricket performance.

In another significant result, England defeated Sri Lanka by five wickets in the first Test, moving from seventh to fourth place in the WTC points table. This victory has caused Sri Lanka to drop to fifth position.

While the prospect of an India vs Pakistan final remains enticing, Pakistan's path to the WTC final now appears increasingly remote given their current standing and recent performances.