Rain and a wet outfield spoiled the second Test between India and Bangladesh at the Green Park Stadium, with the weather threatening to derail India’s quest for a place in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Only 35 overs were bowled on the first day as Bangladesh struggled to reach 107/3, with Indian pacer Akash Deep impressing with two crucial wickets. The second day passed without a ball being thrown.

India is currently at the top of the WTC standings with a PCT score of 71.67 percentage points after ten games and is therefore well placed to reach the final for the third time in a row. With a 2-0 series win against Bangladesh, India would have needed just three wins from the remaining eight games to secure a place in the WTC final.

However, with the threat of heavy rain in the second Test, a draw could complicate India’s path to the final.

Should this Test end in a draw, India will need to win five of their next eight Test matches to cement their place in the WTC final, assuming other contenders for a place in the top two do not lose points.

This leaves India facing a tougher road ahead as they are likely to need to register a 3-0 win over New Zealand at home and secure at least two wins in the five-match Border-Gavaskar series against Australia Down Under.

India have won the last two series in Australia but repeating that feat will be a daunting task, especially with the pressure of WTC qualification hanging over them. The team’s dominant home record combined with recent successes Down Under gives India some confidence, but the margin for error has narrowed significantly if this game goes to waste.

The home series against New Zealand will be crucial for India’s campaign. While the Indian team has been virtually unbeatable on home soil, a 3-0 win against the New Zealanders is crucial to ease the burden of having to win multiple away games in Australia.

Given India’s history in Australia, two wins in the Border-Gavaskar series would still be an impressive result, but the challenge is immense.

The Indian camp is hoping for a rain break so that play can resume in Kanpur. Any session lost due to weather could mean India faces an uphill battle en route to the WTC final. With a host of talented bowlers, including Akash Deep, already impressing in the game, India will look to grab every opportunity to take control of the game once the weather clears.

There is a lot at stake and India’s immediate focus remains on Bangladesh. However, the shadow of WTC qualification is looming, with Green Park Stadium’s rain-soaked outfield adding unwanted complexity to India’s otherwise well-thought-out plans.