team indiaexpected to reach World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 They got a big shock after the shocking defeat of 30 runs in the final. South Africa In the first Test at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. The hosts collapsed under pressure while chasing a modest target of 124 runs. simon harmer Destroyed the middle order with his disciplined spin bowling. The unexpected collapse has not only affected India’s campaign but also put them in trouble for the remainder of the WTC cycle.
India slipped to fourth place due to point percentage being affected.
Defeat against defending WTC champions proved costly Shubman GillThere are men in the points table. India have completed eight matches in the cycle so far, registering 4 wins, 3 losses and 1 draw, bringing their points percentage (PCT) down to 54.17%.
This decline has pushed them to fourth place, leaving little respite as other contenders have tightened their grip on the top two spots. Since there are still many challenging overseas tours to come, India will have to treat every match as a virtual knockout to revive their campaign.
India’s qualification scenario: What the Shubman Gill-led team needs to do to reach the WTC final
Target: Get above 65% PCT
Historically, teams finishing above 65% PCT have safely qualified for the WTC Finals. For India to break that mark this cycle, they will need to deliver near-flawless performances in their remaining fixtures. There are still 10 Tests left, the equation is tough but not impossible.
Win at all costs approach required
India will have to score as many points as possible from here, with minimal scope for further defeat. The following scenarios outline their path:
- best case scenario: Win 8 out of the remaining 10 tests
If India achieve eight wins, even with two draws, their PCT will climb comfortably above 65%. This will put them in direct competition for a place in the top two.
- balanced path: Six wins and four draws
The scenario of 6 wins and 4 draws ensures a PCT of around 68.52%, which puts India above the qualification threshold. However, this leaves no room for defeat.
- dangerous path: Two losses and one draw
If India finish their remaining matches with 2 losses and 1 draw, their PCT drops to 64.81%, leaving them on the boundary line but will still be in the race depending on other results.
- worst case: Three losses and one draw
Any combination that results in three defeats takes India below the 60% mark. In such a case, qualification becomes extremely unlikely unless there are major upsets involving other teams.
Also read: Fans rejoice as South Africa ends 15-year drought with stunning win over India in first Test