India’s hopes for a third consecutive World Test Championship (WTC) final berth were revived after a thrilling Test and series win against Bangladesh in Kanpur. The match, marred by weather delays and drainage issues, had put India in a precarious position, but a determined performance on the final two days saw the team through. Under head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma, India now sets its sights on a crucial upcoming series against New Zealand, which could determine their WTC final fate.
Kanpur Test Drama Amid Rain Delays
The second Test in Kanpur was nearly derailed by persistent rain and poor outfield conditions. After only 35 overs were bowled on Day 1, rain washed out both Days 2 and 3, raising concerns over India’s chances. Bangladesh, placed at 107/3 after a crushing loss in the first Test in Chennai, seemed to be in a favorable position as a potential draw loomed. This result would have severely dented India’s WTC final hopes, especially with Sri Lanka’s recent 2-0 whitewash against New Zealand catapulting them to third in the WTC standings.
However, with improved weather on Day 4, India made a remarkable comeback. The bowlers quickly wrapped up Bangladesh’s first innings, conceding only 126 runs for the last seven wickets. India’s batters then took charge, scoring at a rapid pace, declaring at 285/9 with an impressive run rate of over 8 runs per over. Ravichandran Ashwin and the bowling attack struck late on Day 4, reducing Bangladesh to 26/2.
India’s Dominant Finish on Day 5
On the final day, India needed to secure a win to keep their WTC hopes alive. Bangladesh, however, crumbled under pressure. India’s bowlers, led by Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin, bowled out the visitors for just 146 runs in the second innings, leaving India with a target of 95 runs. The Indian batters comfortably chased down the target in just 17.2 overs, with Yashasvi Jaiswal scoring back-to-back half-centuries in the match.
What’s Next for India in the WTC Journey?
India remains at the top of the WTC standings with a win percentage of 74.24, after securing eight wins in 11 matches during the current cycle. Despite the close call in Kanpur, India is now in a strong position to reach the final. They need just three more wins from their remaining eight Tests to secure their place in the WTC final.
Next up for India is a crucial three-match home series against New Zealand, starting on October 16. A clean sweep against the Blackcaps, who currently sit seventh in the WTC table with three wins in eight matches, would guarantee India’s place in the final, regardless of the results in their later tour of Australia.
With the pressure mounting, head coach Gambhir and captain Sharma will be keen to keep up the momentum. India’s bowlers, particularly Jadeja and Ashwin, are expected to play pivotal roles, while the batting lineup, featuring in-form players like Jaiswal, will need to maintain their aggressive approach.
Conclusion
India’s victory in Kanpur was a crucial step toward their WTC final qualification, overcoming both weather disruptions and Bangladesh’s resistance. With the New Zealand series looming large, India will need to maintain focus and consistency to secure a third consecutive appearance in the WTC final.
