NEW DELHI: Rain and a wet outfield played spoilsport in the second Test between India and India Bangladesh at Green Park Stadiumas the weather threatens to jeopardize India’s quest for a place in the world World Test Championship (WTC) final.
Only 35 overs were bowled on the first day as Bangladesh struggled to 107/3 at Indian pace Akash Deep impressive by taking two crucial wickets. However, persistent drizzle on the second day left the cover open, raising concerns that a significant portion of the game could be lost.
India currently leads the WTC standings with a PCT score of 71.67 percentage points after ten games and is 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 series 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 presents a more challenging route for India as everything will likely need to be cleaned there New Zealand 3-0 at home and secure at least two wins in the five games Border-Gavaskar series against Australia 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.