India boost WTC final qualification chances as Sydney Test ends in a draw

Pat Cummins and Dean Elgar after Sydney Test ended in a draw [Source: AP]

After losing the first two Tests, South Africa managed a fighting draw in the final dead rubber against Australia in Sydney. 

The series defeat reduced South Africa's point percentage to 48.72, placing them in the fourth position in the updated WTC standings. So, they need not only to win against West Indies in their upcoming series but also a host of other results favouring them to qualify for the final. 

On the other hand, with the Sydney Test being drawn, Australia haven't sealed their final berth. However, they still sit at the top with a win percentage of 75.56. Therefore, their qualification for the final is all but certain.  

Meanwhile, the drawn Test in Sydney has worked wonders for India and Sri Lanka, as they occupy the second and third spots in the standings, with win percentages of 58.93 and 53.33, respectively. 

While India will play Australia in a four-match series at home next month, Sri Lanka will cross swords against hosts New Zealand in two Test matches in March. Considering the strengths of both teams, we reckon India might make it to their second consecutive WTC final. 

The ongoing World Test Championship will conclude with the final between the top two teams at the iconic Lord's cricket ground in England. 

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