India's hopes for WTC final suffer big blow with 0-3 loss to New Zealand; chances for qualification explained

India's defeat in the third Test against New Zealand has put their chances in the World Test Championship in jeopardy. With their upcoming five Tests against Australia in their territory, the pressure is now on India to turn things around and secure vital points in the championship.

As a result of this loss, India have now lost their top spot in the WTC standings, and their point percentage has fell to 58.33. Earlier, the loss in Pune had meant India’s WTC points percentage (PCT) dipped from above 74 percent to 62.82 per cent within eight days.

Australia now have the top spot in the WTC standings with a PCT of 62.50. Sri Lanka, South Africa and New Zealand are also in with a chance to make the WTC final. However, it is fair to say that India now face an uphill task to make their third WTC final in a row, after having previously reached the final in 2021 and 2023.

To now qualify for the WTC final without depending on others, Rohit Sharma and co cannot afford another defeat in their remaining five matches. India are now required to pull of a stunning 4-0 or 5-0 coup Down Under against the defending WTC champions to make it to the final for the third time in a row.

India need at least two more wins to stay in contention for the final, however, this won't be enough as the side would require other results to sway their way. To maintain their PCT over 60, India must win at least two matches and draw four games.

If India fail to win 4-0 or 5-0 against Australia, Rohit Sharma would have to look closely in the series between Sri Lanka-Australia, South Africa-Sri Lanka and South Africa-Pakistan. However, if India don't win two matches in Australia, they can say goodbye to the WTC final chances.

Australia (PCT 62.5)

India (PCT 58.33)

Sri Lanka (PCT 55.56)

New Zealand (PCT 54.54)

South Africa (PCT 54.16)

England (PCT 40.79)

Pakistan (PCT 33.33)

Bangladesh (27.5)

West Indies (18.52)