What Teams Must Do to Secure a Spot in the WTC Final

With 15 matches left in the current World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, no team has guaranteed a spot in the final, leaving the race for the top two positions wide open. Here's a look at the scenarios for each contender. 

South Africa (59.26%): The Proteas need to win three of their remaining four matches, including series against Sri Lanka and Pakistan, to secure their place. A single loss could complicate their qualification if other teams, like India or Sri Lanka, maximise their points. 

Sri Lanka (50.00%): Following a defeat in Durban, Sri Lanka must win all three remaining matches to reach 61.54%. Even one loss could leave them dependent on unfavourable results for other teams. 

New Zealand (50.00%): The Black Caps' chances are slim after losing to England. With a maximum achievable percentage of 57.14%, they rely heavily on other teams faltering. 

India (61.11%): India’s win in Perth bolstered their position, but they still need to dominate their series against Australia to ensure qualification. Even with fewer wins, they could qualify depending on results from other series. 

Australia (57.69%): Australia must win at least four of their last six matches, including their away series in Sri Lanka, to stay in contention without relying on other teams. 

Pakistan and England: Both teams have outside chances, but qualification would require extraordinary performances and favourable outcomes across all remaining matches. 

Bangladesh and the West Indies are already out of the race.