World Test Championship: How Can Team India Qualify For WTC Finals After PAK vs ENG 2nd Test

WTC Points Table: England registered their second consecutive test win against Pakistan in Pakistan as they defeated the hosts by 26 runs in the 2nd Test to build an unassailable 2-0 lead. This win by England has helped India's chances to qualify for the WTC Finals to be played in 2023. 

Harry Brook was adjudged the Player of the Match as he was the only batter who smacked a century in the 2nd Test. Brook scored 108 runs in the 2nd innings, helping England post a good target. Mark Wood then picked up 4 wickets while James Anderson and Ollie Robinson picked up 2 wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for 328. 

With this win, Pakistan have slipped one spot and are now in the 6th spot with a PCT of 42.42. This loss has now ended Pakistan's chances of making it to the WTC finals. England on the other hand, have moved up to the 5th spot with a PCT of 44.44, and are also out of the WTC finals race. 

Now, Australia are at the top with 75% PCT, followed by South Africa (60), Sri Lanka (53.33) and India (52.08). Two out of four teams will qualify for the finals. While Australia are all but through, with a recent 2-0 win against West Indies and a 3-match series at home against South Africa, all the other three teams are still in the race to make it. 

India have 6 more tests left to be played in this cycle, and the equation for them is straightforward, they need to win 5 of these matches and can concede only one loss. India has to play 2 Tests against Bangladesh in Bangladesh and then will play a 4-match series against Australia. 

Sri Lanka on the other hand has an away series left, against New Zealand, while South Africa are set to host West Indies for a 2-match series at home. Consecutive wins for both teams can increase India's hiccups in the way of the WTC finals. 

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India will play their next Test against Bangladesh at Chattogram, starting on December 14th (Wednesday). India needs to win the 2-match series against Bangladesh by 2-0 and then beat Australia at home by 4-1, 3-0 or 3-1 to make it to the finals. WTC 2023 Finals is set to be played at The Oval om March 31st, 2023.