The upcoming India vs Bangladesh Test series is expected to have significant implications on the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, particularly on the qualification race for the final. Both teams, though in different positions in the WTC standings, are keen to capitalize on every point as they fight to secure a spot in the prestigious one-off final in 2025.
India’s Dominance and Prospects
India, as one of the top contenders in the current WTC cycle, have a solid track record and are placed in a strong position to qualify for their third consecutive WTC final. The team, led by captain Rohit Sharma, has dominated in recent years, especially in home conditions, and will look to continue their momentum against Bangladesh. They have been bolstered by the return of key players like Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara, both of whom are essential to their Test batting lineup.
India’s recent success against top teams like Australia and West Indies has provided them with crucial points. If India manages to win the series against Bangladesh convincingly, it will further solidify their position at the top of the WTC standings, making them one of the favorites for the final. However, a loss or even a drawn series could open the door for other contenders to close in on India, given the fierce competition in this cycle.
Bangladesh’s Tough Road Ahead
On the other hand, Bangladesh faces a much tougher challenge. Currently languishing at the bottom of the WTC standings, they have had a difficult run in the 2023-25 cycle. Bangladesh’s performance so far includes series losses against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, putting immense pressure on them to win their remaining matches. With only four Tests played so far in this cycle, Bangladesh needs to secure victories not only against India but also in upcoming series against teams like Pakistan and South Africa if they hope to remain in contention for a spot in the final.
Though Bangladesh has shown glimpses of potential in the past, defeating India in their own backyard is a daunting task. The team will need its senior players, such as Shakib Al Hasan and Liton Das, to step up and guide their relatively inexperienced squad. Furthermore, the spin-friendly conditions in India may put pressure on Bangladesh’s batting lineup, while also providing opportunities for their spin bowlers to exploit.
WTC 2025 Qualification Race
The WTC 2025 final race is heating up, with multiple teams vying for the coveted two spots in the final. Alongside India, Australia and South Africa are strong contenders. However, Sri Lanka and Pakistan remain dark horses, capable of upsetting the odds with key series wins.
Australia, fresh off their WTC 2023 triumph, are looking to maintain their form. They have a few challenging series left, including a home series against Sri Lanka, but with their recent strong performances, they remain a top contender for the final.
Pakistan, though slightly behind in terms of points, have the advantage of playing the majority of their remaining matches at home. Their upcoming series against Bangladesh and England will be crucial, as a string of victories could propel them back into contention.
Sri Lanka, too, are in the mix, and their impressive performances in the subcontinent make them a serious threat. However, they face a challenging set of fixtures, including series against England, South Africa, and Australia, which will test their ability to compete at the highest level.
What’s at Stake
For India, the series against Bangladesh is more than just about maintaining dominance in home conditions. It’s about securing a foothold in the WTC final race and avoiding any slip-ups that could allow their rivals to catch up. Bangladesh, on the other hand, will be looking for an upset that could reignite their fading hopes of WTC final qualification.
While India will enter the series as overwhelming favorites, Test cricket has shown time and again that surprises can happen. Both teams will be under pressure to deliver, and the outcome of this series could significantly impact the broader WTC 2025 qualification scenario.
As the battle for the WTC final intensifies, every run, wicket, and match result will be closely watched, making the IND vs BAN series a critical juncture in this cycle. Both teams have a lot to play for, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.