After crushing defeat in Boxing Day Test, how can India still secure spot in WTC Final?

Sports News: Australia secured a commanding victory over India by 184 runs in the Boxing Day Test held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, taking a 2-1 lead in the ongoing five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy. After setting a daunting target of 340 runs, Australia bowled out India for just 155 runs in 79.1 overs on the final day of the match. Yashasvi Jaiswal emerged as India's top scorer with a resilient 84 runs from 208 balls, yet he received little support from his teammates.

Top Order Collapse

The Indian batting lineup struggled significantly, with seasoned players Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli failing to make an impact. Sharma managed only 9 runs off 40 balls, while Rahul was dismissed for a duck after facing just five deliveries. Kohli followed suit, contributing a mere 5 runs from 29 balls before returning to the pavilion. This early collapse put immense pressure on the rest of the batting order.

Impact on World Test Championship

The defeat at the MCG not only dampened India's spirits but also jeopardized their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final in 2025. Currently positioned third in the points table with a percentage of 52.78%, India must win the upcoming fifth Test against Australia, scheduled to commence on January 3, 2025, at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Additionally, they need Sri Lanka to defeat Australia in their two-match Test series starting January 29, 2025.If these conditions are met, India could finish the WTC cycle with a percentage of 55.26%, while Australia would max out at 53.51% and Sri Lanka at 53.85%. However, if India loses or draws in Sydney, their hopes for consecutive WTC finals will be dashed.

South Africa Secures Final Spot

In related news, South Africa clinched its place in the WTC final for the first time after defeating Pakistan by two wickets in their first Test match at SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 29.In summary, Australia's decisive win over India has shifted the dynamics of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and significantly impacted India's World Test Championship ambitions.