World Test Championship: How Can India Still Reach WTC Finals? Know All Qualification Scenarios After PAK vs ENG 1st Test Here

After the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2022, the focus has shifted to longer formats. While ODI World Cup is set to be played in 2023, the teams are also donning the white jerseys again with the WTC finals to be played next year and the qualification race is heating up. On one hand, Australia maintained their top spot with a win against West Indies at home, and England defeated Pakistan at Rawalpindi to give a boost to India's chances of making it to the finals. 

After a defeat in the first Test, Pakistan have moved from the 4th to the 5th spot in the WTC points table as India have moved up to the 4th spot. Team India has yet to play 6 Tests in this WTC cycle and their qualification to the WTC final will heavily depend on this match. 

India currently have a PCT of 52.08 in the WTC table, and if they aren't docked any demerit points, India can reach a maximum PCT of 68.05. This PCT just might be enough for India to end up in the top 2. However, team India would also have to depend on other teams' match results to qualify for the finals. 

In the current WTC points table, Australia are at the top spot with a PCT of 72.73, while South Africa are placed second with a PCT of 60. Sri Lanka are placed 3rd with a 53.33 PCT. In this cycle, Sri Lanka has an away Test series against New Zealand while South Africa are scheduled to tour Australia for a 3-match Test series along with a 2-match home series against West Indies. South Africa can increase India's trouble more than Sri Lanka. 

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While talking about Pakistan, they have all of their four remaining Tests at home. They are yet to play 2 Tests against England and following that is a 2-match home series against New Zealand. However, Pakistan's road to finals looks a bit bleak with their flat surfaces ensuring a draw more than any other result.