India’s emphatic victory over Bangladesh in the second Test in Kanpur has propelled them towards a third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final appearance. The comprehensive 7-wicket triumph has solidified India’s position at the summit of the WTC standings, with 98 points from 11 matches.
Despite the weather interruptions that marred the first three days of the Test, India showcased their resilience and adaptability. The team’s all-round performance was a testament to their depth and quality.
India’s bowlers, led by Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav, wreaked havoc on the Bangladesh batting lineup, dismissing them for 227 and 173. The spinners accounted for 17 of the 20 wickets to fall in the match.
The Indian batsmen, too, played their part, with Shubman Gill and Cheteshwar Pujara scoring half-centuries in the first innings. Virat Kohli and Shreyas Iyer then guided India to victory in the second innings, with unbeaten knocks of 59 and 29, respectively.
The win has extended India’s lead at the top of the WTC standings, with a points percentage of 74.24. They are now overwhelming favorites to qualify for the final, which will be held at Lord’s in June 2025.
India’s next assignment in the WTC is a three-Test series against New Zealand, starting on October 16 in Bengaluru. A 3-0 sweep against the Black Caps would guarantee India a place in the final.
However, if India fails to whitewash New Zealand, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia will become even more crucial. Australia, currently second in the WTC standings, could overtake India with a series win.
The upcoming Test series against New Zealand and Australia will be pivotal in determining India’s fate in the WTC. With their current form and depth, India is well-positioned to secure a third consecutive appearance in the final.
