The ICC World Test Championship standings are heating up, with India and Australia neck-and-neck at the top. India currently holds a slim lead with 62.82% of possible points, while Australia trails closely behind with 62.50%.
India’s remaining schedule includes a home Test against New Zealand and a five-Test series in Australia. Despite recent setbacks against New Zealand, India can still finish with a maximum of 74.56% of points. The upcoming series against Australia will be crucial for their chances of reaching a third consecutive World Test Championship final.
Australia, the reigning champions, need to win at least four of their remaining seven Tests to defend their title. They have the advantage of playing two Tests in Sri Lanka next year, which could potentially allow them to draw 2-2 with India and still remain in contention for the final. However, their immediate focus will be on regaining the Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home, where they have struggled against India in recent years.
Sri Lanka, South Africa, and New Zealand are also in the mix for a top-two finish. Sri Lanka’s victory over England has given them hope, but they face challenging series against South Africa and Australia. New Zealand’s historic series win in India has put them back in contention, but they will likely need to win all four of their remaining Tests. South Africa’s success in the sub-continent has boosted their chances, and they have the advantage of playing four matches at home.
England, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the West Indies are currently out of contention for the final, but they will be looking to finish the cycle on a positive note with strong performances in their remaining matches.
