India lost the first Test against New Zealand, and the current situation suggests that it will be tough to save the second Test as well. At the end of the second day on Friday, New Zealand holds a lead of 301 runs. A loss in this Test would mean India could face their first home Test series defeat in 12 years. Additionally, this could deliver a major blow to India’s hopes of reaching the World Test Championship final.
New Zealand is dreaming of winning a Test series in India for the first time. Meanwhile, India has their eyes on the points equation. If India loses the second Test, their points percentage will drop to 62.82%. Although this would still place them slightly ahead of Australia (62.50%) at the top, India’s spot in the final would not be guaranteed.
In this World Test Championship cycle, India must win five out of the six remaining Tests, with one draw, to nearly ensure their place in the final. Without a draw, they’ll have to rely on other teams’ performances.
If India wins only three Tests, they’ll need to depend on the results of matches involving Sri Lanka and South Africa, as both teams still have matches left against Australia and South Africa. The outcomes of those games could impact India’s chances for the final.
Before the New Zealand series began, India was in a good position. But the loss in Bengaluru and the looming risk of defeat in Pune have made the path challenging. Cricket experts are already highlighting how tough it will be to win three or four Tests in Australia.
