South Africa's Gqeberha thrashing of Australia keeps India's WTC final hopes alive

South Africa's emphatic innings-and-31-run victory over Australia in the second Test in Gqeberha has thrown the race for the World Test Championship (WTC) final wide open, handing India and several other contenders a renewed sense of hope.

Although Australia remain at the top of the standings, the defeat stopped them from extending their advantage and gave chasing teams, including India, a genuine lifeline. Australia hold a points percentage (PCT) of 75.00, with New Zealand second on 72.22 and South Africa third on 66.67.

What India need to do

India are currently fifth in the standings, with seven Tests still to play in the current cycle — two against New Zealand and five against Australia, all at home. To finish with a PCT of 60, India must collect 62 points from those matches and cannot afford to lose more than two Tests.

Yet even a strong finish may not be enough on its own. India also need at least two of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa to drop points in their remaining fixtures. Their upcoming home series against New Zealand and Australia will therefore be decisive in the battle to reach the final at The Oval in London next year.

Bangladesh still in the hunt

Bangladesh, currently fourth, remain firmly in contention for a place in the final. Four of their six remaining Tests will be played at home, offering a valuable opportunity to bank points. They will need to make the most of familiar conditions and hope that the teams above them slip up.

A difficult task ahead

South Africa's win has kept the competition open, but India still face a formidable challenge. The path to the final will require both consistent performances of their own and favourable results elsewhere if they are to book their spot at The Oval.