After a crushing 113-run defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the second Test in Pune, India's chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final have taken a major hit. It was the first time India had been beaten at home by New Zealand in a Test series, and this loss also resulted in a drop in India's WTC points percentage to 62.82, giving them a narrow lead over Australia. With other teams like New Zealand and Pakistan achieving big wins in their respective Tests, the race for the top spot in the WTC is intensifying.
India's Hopes of World Test Championship Final Hit by New Zealand Defeat
India's aspirations of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final have suffered a significant setback following their heavy defeat to New Zealand in the second Test in Pune. It marked India's first home Test series loss to New Zealand and resulted in a dip in their WTC points percentage to 62.82.
Prior to the series, India boasted a dominant position in the WTC standings with a points percentage of 75.00. However, their disappointing performance against the Kiwis has opened the door for other teams to challenge their supremacy.
New Zealand's comprehensive victory has propelled them into contention for the WTC final, while Pakistan and Australia have also recorded notable wins in their recent Test matches. This has intensified the competition for the top spot in the standings, with several teams still in the running for a place in the title decider.
Background of the World Test Championship
The World Test Championship was launched in 2019 as a way to elevate the status and importance of Test cricket. It is a two-year cycle in which the top nine Test-playing nations compete in a league format. Teams earn points based on their performance in Test matches, with the top two teams qualifying for the final.
The inaugural WTC cycle was won by New Zealand, who defeated India in the final at Southampton in 2021. The current cycle began in 2021 and will conclude with the final in June 2023.
Top 5 FAQs Related to the World Test Championship
1. What are the qualifying criteria for the World Test Championship final? The top two teams in the WTC standings based on points percentage will qualify for the final.
2. When and where will the World Test Championship final be held? The final will be played from June 7-11, 2023, at The Oval in London, England.
3. Which teams are currently in contention for a place in the final? India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and South Africa are among the teams currently in the top half of the WTC standings.
4. What is the format of the World Test Championship final? The final will be a single match, played over a maximum of six days.
5. Who won the last World Test Championship final? New Zealand defeated India in the 2021 WTC final.
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Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble celebrates his birthday. He holds the record for most Test wickets by an Indian and is also the leading wicket-taker for India in ODIs. Kumble was the second player in history to take all ten wickets in a Test match innings and later went on to coach the Indian team to numerous victories. He was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2015.
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