India’s path to the World Test Championship (WTC) final has become more challenging after consecutive defeats against New Zealand. However, assistant coach Abhishek Nayar remains confident, emphasizing that the team is not dwelling on past results.
Despite sitting atop the WTC standings with a 62.82-point percentage, India faces a daunting task. To reach the final in London next year, they must win their remaining six Tests, including five against Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Nayar acknowledged the difficulties ahead but stressed the importance of staying present and taking it one game at a time. “When you put on the Indian jersey, every game is critical,” he said. “We have not been narrow-minded about the WTC. Our focus is on the game at Wankhede.”
If India can secure a victory in the third Test against New Zealand, they will be just three wins away from the final. However, the pathway is not straightforward.
India’s chances of reaching the final hinge on their ability to maintain their dominance. If they can win four of their remaining six games, they will have a 64.04% point percentage, assuming they avoid any penalties for slow over rates. This would guarantee their place in the final, regardless of other results.
Nayar emphasized the team’s determination to overcome the challenges ahead. “We need to stay in the present and take it day by day,” he said. “If we can do that, we will be one step closer to where this team wants to be.”
