South Africa has qualified for the final of the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) by defeating Pakistan in a thrilling Centurion Test. This victory not only sealed the series lead for South Africa but also confirmed their place in the WTC final for the first time.
As the Proteas gear up for the grand finale at Lord’s in June 2025, the focus now shifts to the fierce competition between India and Australia, both vying for the remaining spot in the WTC final.
South Africa’s Dominance in the WTC
South Africa’s consistent performances in the ongoing WTC cycle have placed them at the top of the points table. Before the start of their two-Test series against Pakistan, South Africa needed just one win to confirm their qualification. By clinching a nail-biting two-wicket victory in the first Test, they not only secured a series lead but also made the result of the second Test inconsequential to their qualification.
This remarkable feat marks South Africa’s debut in the WTC final, underscoring their resurgence in Test cricket under the leadership of a well-balanced team.
India vs. Australia: The Decisive Battle
With South Africa’s qualification confirmed, the spotlight now falls on the intense rivalry between India and Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The two teams are locked in a fierce battle, with the series tied 1-1 after three matches.
The ongoing fourth Test in Melbourne, with its final day scheduled on Monday, could prove pivotal in determining who edges closer to the WTC final. Both teams are acutely aware that every match is critical, as even the slightest slip-up could jeopardize their chances.
Current WTC Points Standings
- South Africa: 1st
- Australia: 2nd
- India: 3rd
India’s points average currently stands at 55.88, while Australia has a slightly higher average of 58.89. With only one match left for India after the Melbourne Test, their path to the final is narrower compared to Australia, which has three matches remaining, including a two-Test series against Sri Lanka.
Scenarios for Qualification
If India Wins Both Remaining Tests
- India finishes with 126 points and an average of 55.26.
- Australia can still qualify by drawing both matches against Sri Lanka or winning one.
If India Wins One and Draws One
- India ends with 130 points and an average of 57.01.
- Australia must win both Tests against Sri Lanka to qualify.
If India Draws Both Remaining Tests
- India finishes with 122 points and an average of 53.50.
- Australia needs just one win against Sri Lanka to surpass India.
If India Loses One Test and Draws the Other
- India ends with 118 points.
- Australia’s chances improve significantly with their matches against Sri Lanka.
Australia’s Advantage
Australia’s additional matches against Sri Lanka give them a clear edge in terms of opportunities to secure crucial points.
How WTC Points Are Awarded
The World Test Championship operates on a percentage-based points system:
- Win: 100% of 12 points
- Tie: 50% of 12 points
- Draw: 33.3% of 12 points
Slow over rates can result in points deductions, further impacting standings.
Past WTC Winners
The WTC was introduced by the ICC in 2019 to bring context and excitement to Test cricket.
- 2019–2021: New Zealand defeated India in the final.
- 2021–2023: Australia triumphed over India.
Looking Ahead to the Final
The 2025 WTC final is set to take place at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground in England, beginning on June 11. While South Africa has secured their spot, the cricketing world eagerly awaits the outcome of the India-Australia rivalry to see who will join them.
The final promises to be a spectacle, bringing together the best Test cricket teams for a clash of titans.
South Africa’s qualification for their first-ever WTC final is a testament to their resilience and consistency. Meanwhile, the race between India and Australia intensifies, with every session of play holding immense significance.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy unfolds and Australia prepares for their series against Sri Lanka, the battle for the second spot in the WTC final remains wide open. One thing is certain: cricket fans worldwide are in for a thrilling ride as the journey to Lord’s continues.
