World Test Championship 2023-25: How Many Wins Does Team India Need to Qualify for the Final?

Posted on October 22, 2024 by Vipul Yadav

The World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 has captured the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. With each Test series carrying significant weight, the journey towards the WTC final is both thrilling and challenging. Following the recent defeat to New Zealand in Bengaluru, Team India faces a crucial question: how many wins are necessary to secure a spot in the WTC 2023-25 final? In this article, we will analyze the current standings, India’s path to the final, and the key factors that will influence the outcome.

By ESPN

Understanding the World Test Championship Format

The World Test Championship is the pinnacle of Test cricket, featuring the top cricketing nations battling it out over a two-year cycle. The tournament’s primary aim is to crown the best Test team in the world, based on a point system that rewards wins, draws, and series victories.

WTC Points System: How Teams Accumulate Points

Each Test series in the WTC has a pre-assigned total of 120 points, distributed across the matches in the series. The points breakdown is as follows:

Win: 12 points per match
Draw: 4 points per match
Loss: 0 points per match
Tie: 6 points per match

Teams also earn points based on the percentage of points earned out of the total points available in their matches. This percentage determines the final standings in the WTC table.

India’s Current Position in the World Test Championship 2023-25 Standings

As of now, Team India has had a mixed start in the ongoing WTC cycle. The loss to New Zealand in Bengaluru has added pressure, but the road to the final is still open. India’s position on the points table will depend on several crucial factors, including their upcoming Test series and the performance of other top teams like Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand.

Key Challenges Facing Team India

India’s journey to the WTC final is not without obstacles. Here are some of the challenges they face:

Tough Away Series: India has several challenging away series lined up, including tours to Australia and South Africa, which are historically difficult conditions for the team.
Injuries and Player Form: Injuries to key players or a dip in form can impact India’s performance significantly.
Consistency in Spin Bowling: India’s strength in home conditions relies heavily on spin bowling. Consistency in this department, especially in away matches, will be crucial.
Batting Line-up: India’s batting line-up, led by experienced players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Cheteshwar Pujara, needs to fire consistently, especially in overseas conditions.

World Test Championship 2023-25 Point Table

Here’s a points table format for the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, based on the standard WTC points system:

Position	Team	Matches Played (P)	Wins (W)	Losses (L)	Draws (D)	Points (Pts)
1	Australia	10	7	2	1	88
2	India	12	8	3	1	84
3	South Africa	9	6	3	0	72
4	England	11	6	4	1	76
5	New Zealand	10	5	4	1	64
6	Pakistan	8	3	4	1	44
7	Sri Lanka	8	2	5	1	32
8	West Indies	9	3	6	0	36
9	Bangladesh	8	1	7	0	12

How Many Wins Does India Need to Qualify for the WTC Final?

To ensure a spot in the WTC 2023-25 final, India must target a high win percentage in their remaining matches. Based on the current WTC standings and projections, here are the scenarios:

1. Minimum Wins for Qualification

India needs a minimum of 8-9 Test victories from their remaining fixtures to have a realistic chance of qualifying for the final. This estimate is based on maintaining a win percentage of around 60-65%, which should be enough to finish in the top two positions.

2. Importance of Away Wins

Winning away Test matches will be crucial, as these victories carry significant weight in the points table. A strong away performance, especially against top-ranked teams, can boost India’s standings and improve their chances of making it to the final.

3. Avoiding Draws and Minimizing Losses

Draws can be costly in the WTC, as they only award four points compared to 12 for a win. India must aim to win matches outright rather than settling for draws. Minimizing losses is equally crucial, as each loss impacts the team’s win percentage negatively.

India’s Key Test Series in the World Test Championship 2023-25 Cycle

India has several important Test series scheduled in the current WTC cycle. Here’s a breakdown of the series that will play a decisive role in India’s qualification:

1. Australia (Home Series)

Australia’s tour to India will be a significant challenge. India has a solid record at home, but the Aussies have a well-balanced team capable of causing upsets. A comprehensive series win at home will provide India with a solid points boost.

2. South Africa (Away Series)

Winning a Test series in South Africa is never easy, but it’s a crucial step for India’s WTC aspirations. A victory in South African conditions will not only be a huge morale booster but also pivotal for India’s qualification hopes.

3. England (Home and Away)

England remains a strong contender in Test cricket, and India’s matches against them—both at home and away—will be critical. Securing a series victory against England can significantly enhance India’s standing on the points table.

4. West Indies (Away Series)

An away series against West Indies is another opportunity for India to accumulate valuable points. Winning this series with a significant margin can cushion India’s overall win percentage.

Key Players to Watch in India’s WTC Campaign

India’s success in the WTC will heavily rely on the performance of their star players. Here are some of the key individuals who will play a pivotal role:

1. Rohit Sharma – The Captain’s Role

Rohit Sharma, as the captain and opening batsman, will be instrumental in setting the tone for India’s Test matches. His leadership and aggressive batting style can make a difference, especially in tough situations.

2. Virat Kohli – The Experienced Maestro

Virat Kohli’s experience in Test cricket is unmatched. His ability to anchor innings and perform in challenging conditions will be vital for India’s success.

3. Jasprit Bumrah – The Strike Bowler

Jasprit Bumrah’s bowling in all conditions makes him a key asset. His ability to take wickets at crucial moments can swing Test matches in India’s favor.

4. Ravichandran Ashwin – The Spin Wizard

Ashwin’s spin bowling, especially in home conditions, will be crucial. His all-round abilities can contribute significantly, both with bat and ball.

Strategies for India to Ensure WTC Final Qualification

To maximize their chances of reaching the WTC final, India should focus on the following strategies:

1. Strong Starts in Away Matches

A solid start in away matches sets the tone for the rest of the series. India should prioritize winning the first Test in any away series to build momentum.

2. Dominating Home Conditions

India’s home advantage must be leveraged to secure comprehensive victories. Spin-friendly pitches, aggressive batting, and disciplined bowling are key.

3. Fielding and Catching Improvements

Test matches can be won or lost on the field. Improving catching standards and overall fielding can turn tight matches in India’s favor.

4. Effective Utilization of All-Rounders

Utilizing all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Shardul Thakur effectively can provide depth in both batting and bowling, offering balance to the team.

Conclusion

The road to the WTC 2023-25 final is challenging, but it is well within India’s reach. With a clear strategy, consistent performances, and key players firing at the right time, India can secure their place in the final. A strong display in upcoming Test series, especially in tough away conditions, will be crucial for India’s aspirations.

By focusing on winning matches, minimizing errors, and maintaining a high win percentage, Team India can rise to the top of the WTC standings and compete for the prestigious Test Championship title.

FAQ

Q. How many matches are left for Team India in the WTC 2023-25

Ans:- Team India has eight matches remaining in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The breakdown of these matches is as follows:

Remaining Matches

India vs New Zealand: 3 Tests (Home)
India vs Australia: 5 Tests (Away)

Wins Required

To secure a spot in the WTC final, India needs to win at least three out of these eight matches. This positions them favorably, with a 90% chance of qualification based on their current performance and standings in the tournament

Q. How many Tests will India play at home in the WTC 2023-25

Ans. In the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, Team India will play a total of 10 Tests at home. The breakdown is as follows:

Also Read: Top 10 Richest Cricketers In The World 2024

Top Teams with the Most Losses in T20 International Cricket History

Posted on September 13, 2024 by Vipul Yadav

T20 International (T20I) cricket is known for its fast-paced and exhilarating nature. While some teams thrive in this high-energy format, others struggle to find their footing. In this article, we delve into the teams with the Most Losses In T20 International, exploring the reasons behind their struggles and the impact these defeats have had on their international cricketing journey.

Teams with the Most T20 International Losses

The T20 format, with its unpredictable outcomes and rapid game pace, can challenge even the most seasoned teams. Despite the excitement it brings, consistent defeats in T20I cricket often highlight underlying issues within a team’s strategy and performance. Let’s take a closer look at the teams that have faced the Most Losses In T20 International in this format.

Top 5 Teams with the Highest Defeats in T20 History

1. Afghanistan Most Losses In T20 International

espncricinfo

Afghanistan holds the record for the most losses in T20 International cricket. Despite a passionate fan base and notable victories, the team has struggled with consistency. Their losses can be attributed to factors such as lack of experienced players, inconsistent batting performances, and challenges in adapting to different playing conditions.

2. Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe has experienced numerous defeats in T20 Internationals, reflecting their ongoing battle to solidify their team structure. Despite having skilled players, the team has faced challenges such as inadequate depth in their bowling attack and frequent changes in their squad.

3. West Indies

West Indies, known for their explosive batting and dynamic players, has also faced a significant number of losses in T20 Internationals. The team’s inconsistency in performance, particularly in crucial moments, has contributed to their high loss count.

4. Bangladesh

Bangladesh has shown great potential in T20 cricket but has often faltered in key matches. Their losses are often linked to issues such as lack of experience in high-stakes games and fluctuating team performances.

5. Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, a team with a rich cricketing history, has also faced its share of defeats in T20 Internationals. The team has struggled with transitioning from traditional formats to the T20 style, impacting their consistency and game results.

Team	Matches	Lost	Won
Bangladesh	176	104	68
West Indies	205	101	91
Sri Lanka	195	103	86
Zimbabwe	150	99	48
Australia	199	83	109
New Zealand	220	92	111
Pakistan	244	93	141
Ireland	168	88	71
England	193	84	100
South Africa	188	80	104
India	235	69	155
Rwanda	77	53	21
United Arab Emirates	102	49	52
Afghanistan	138	51	84

Conclusion

While T20 International cricket offers thrilling moments and intense matches, consistent losses can reveal deeper issues within a team’s structure and strategy. The teams mentioned above have faced numerous challenges in their T20I campaigns, but with strategic improvements and focused training, there is always potential for turnaround. As the landscape of T20 cricket evolves, it will be intriguing to see how these teams adapt and work towards overcoming their past defeats.

FAQs

Q: Which team has the most losses in T20 International cricket?
A: Afghanistan holds the record for the most losses in T20 International cricket.

Q: What factors contribute to a team’s poor performance in T20 cricket?
A: Common factors include a weak team composition, poor fielding, inconsistent batting, and a lack of depth in the bowling lineup.

Rahul Dravid Back To Rajasthan Royals As Head Coach Ahead Of IPL 2025

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Harsh Vardhan Singh

Former Indian Cricket Team coach Rahul Dravid is set to return to Rajasthan Royals (RR) as head coach ahead of the 2025 IPL season, following the end of his tenure as Team India’s coach after the T20 World Cup 2024 win in June this year.

Dravid recently signed a deal with RR and has had initial conversations on retention of players ahead of the upcoming mega auction for IPL 2025. He has a long-lived relationship with the RR captain Sanju Samson, who came through the under-19 ranks under Dravid’s supervision.

Dravid has a history with Rajasthan Royals. He captained the team in IPL 2012 and 2013, and also served as team director and mentor in the 2014 and 2015 seasons. In 2016, Rahul Dravid moved to Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) until he was appointed as the head of the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru in 2019.

In 2021, Dravid became the head coach of the Indian Cricket team and ended his 3-years tenure with the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 title.

RR have only won the IPL title in the first season of Indian Premier League in 2008; the franchise’s second best finish was in 2022 when they came runners-up to Gujarat Titans. However, the franchise did not make it to the playoffs in 2023, finishing fifth in the league despite a good start to the season, but did so in 2024 and were knocked out in Qualifier 2.

Hardik Pandya Welcomes Son Agastya Home First Time After Divorce

Posted on September 4, 2024 by Harsh Vardhan Singh

After publicly announcing her divorce from Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya, Natasa Stankovic went to Serbia with her 4-years-old son Agastya.

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya grabbed everyone’s attention on social media after he got separated from his wife and model Natasa Stankovic. They both got married in 2020 and announced the news of their separation in July this year. However, reports say that Natasa returned to Mumbai on Monday and dropped son Agastya at his father Hardik’s place.

Krunal Pandya’s wife Pankuri Sharma shared a cute video of her with Agastya and her own son Kavir on Instagram. In the video, Pankhuri was seen sharing a sweet moment with Agastya and Kavir.

Both Hardik and Natasa made the decision of their separation public on social media, and have moved on their different paths.

Earlier in August, a report claimed that Natasa wasn’t able to adjust to Hardik’s personality, with the cricketer being ‘too full of himself’.

Apart from this, according to reports and gossip, Hardik is rumored to be dating famous British singer Jasmin Walia.

Joe Root Climbs to 5th on All-Time List for Most Fifty-Plus Scores in Test Cricket

Posted on September 1, 2024 by Vipul Yadav

Joe Root has achieved another significant milestone in his illustrious cricketing career by securing the 5th position on the all-time list of players with the most fifty-plus scores in Test cricket. The England batsman now boasts an impressive 98 scores of fifty or more, placing him just behind some of the game’s greatest legends.

At the top of this prestigious list is India’s Sachin Tendulkar, who not only holds the record with 119 fifty-plus scores but is also recognized as the richest cricketer in the world. Tendulkar’s achievements both on and off the field have set a benchmark for future generations.

Following Tendulkar, South Africa’s Jacques Kallis and Australia’s Ricky Ponting are tied with 103 fifty-plus scores each. India’s Rahul Dravid is in 4th place with 99 fifty-plus scores, just ahead of Root.

Root’s consistent performances have been a cornerstone of England’s batting lineup, and his ability to regularly contribute with significant scores has been crucial for his team. With just one more fifty-plus score needed to reach a century of such innings, Root is on the verge of joining an elite club.

As Root continues to play for England, there is a strong possibility that he could move up even further in the rankings, adding to his legacy as one of the finest batsmen in the history of Test cricket.

Rank	Player Name	Country	Number of Fifty-Plus Scores
1	Sachin Tendulkar	India	119
2	Jacques Kallis	South Africa	103
3	Ricky Ponting	Australia	103
4	Rahul Dravid	India	99
5	Joe Root	England	98

Top 10 Richest Cricketers In The World 2024

Posted on August 31, 2024 by Harsh Vardhan Singh

In the sports world, cricket is one of the most famous and richest sports. Over the years, it has been bringing together players and fans from all over the world. Popularity of cricket has led to profitable deals, sponsorships and high-paying contracts for cricketers which makes them the highest-paid athletes in the world.

We present to you a list of top 10 richest cricketers in the world who made huge money not only by playing cricket but also through advertisements and businesses.

Rank	Name	Net Worth	Country
1	Sachin Tendulkar	$165 Million	India
2	MS Dhoni	$130 Million	India
3	Virat Kohli	$127.5 Million	India
4	Sourav Ganguly	$79.25 Million	India
5	Ricky Ponting	$60 Milion	Australia
6	Shane Warne	$51.125 Million	Australia
7	Chris Gayle	$46.88 Million	West Indies
8	Virender Sehwag	$41.5 Million	India
9	Pat Cummins	$40 Million	Australia
10	Yuvraj Singh	$33.25 Million	India

Sachin Tendulkar

Also known as the “God Of Cricket”, post retirement Sachin’s earning didn’t stop as his investment and collaboration with brands ensured his position at the top of the richest cricketers in the world. He partnered with various big brands like Adidas, BMW India and Pepsi and is serving the IPL team Mumbai Indians as a mentor. Net worth of Sachin Tendulkar is estimated to be $165 Million which makes him world’s richest cricket player.

MS Dhoni

The former captain of Indian Cricket Team also known as “Captain Cool”, his team management and pressure handling capabilities made his popularity grow on huge level among cricket fans, and due to his popularity he is the one of the prior choice of brands for their advertisement. He has formed brand partnerships with popular brands like Pepsi, SBI, TVS and many more. Mahendra Singh Dhoni is also a good investor, he invested in Cars24, Khatabook, 7ink Brew and some other companies. Net worth of MS Dhoni is around $130 Million which makes him the second richest cricketer in the world.

Virat Kohli

Most famous Indian cricketer also known by names like “King Kohli”, “The Run Machine”. Virat Kohli is very popular among youth and most fans consider him their idol. He is the most followed cricketer on social media, that is one of the reasons that big brands want him to promote their brand on TV and social media. Kohli formed endorsement deals with Audi, Puma, Hero and many more which has boosted his wealth. He himself owns One8 company which has recently collaborated with Puma to launch sneakers. Net worth of Virat Kohli is around $127.5 Million which makes him the third richest cricketer in the world.

Sourav Ganguly

Former Indian Cricket Team captain, who is also known by some popular names like “Dada”, “Price Of Kolkata”. Sourav Ganguly was known for his aggression and extraordinary leadership skills. His influence did not end after his retirement, he has contributed as BCCI chief for 3 years. He also holds the position of director of cricket in Delhi Capitals IPL team. Ganguly possesses a net worth of $79.25 Million. Interestingly, he has a collection of luxury cars.

Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting, former Australian team captain and legendary cricketer who is 3-times world cup winner as a captain. He was an outstanding captain and player too, which makes him the most influential cricket icon in Australia. He is also the head coach of IPL team “Delhi Capitals” currently. Net worth of Ricky Ponting is $60 Million.

Shane Warne

Shane Warne, one of the greatest bowlers in cricket history who revolutionized leg-spin bowling, possesses a net worth of $51.125 Million. Shane Warne is the inspiration for many bowlers in today’s time.

Chris Gayle

The Universal Boss, popular for his destructive batting and charming personality, is one of the most loved cricketers among Indian fans as well. He holds the record of highest runs scorer ever in an inning in IPL which is 175 runs in just 66 balls. Gayle’s association with brands and leagues has significantly increased his income and he is accumulating the net worth of $46.88 Million.

Virender Sehwag

Virender Sehwag, the most destructive and aggressive opener in the world, dominated every bowler in his era. His popular names are “Viru”, “Multan Ka Sultan”. He has partnered with big brands like Britannia, Hero Honda, Adidas, Reebok and many more. Viru possesses a net worth of $41.5 Million.

Pat Cummins

Australian fast bowler and current captain of Australian team in ODI and Test formats. His excellent performance in international matches has secured his position among the best bowlers in international cricket. Pat Cummins net worth is $40 Million, which is growing as he is associated with brand endorsements and leagues.

Yuvraj Singh

Former batsman in Indian Cricket Team, renowned for his destructive batting and six sixes in an over against England cricket team. His contribution towards winning the ODI world cup 2011 was unforgettable, he dominated every team with his explosive batting in the tournament. Yuvraj has been associated with various brands like Pepsi, Whirlpool, Cadbury and many more. He launched clothing brand “YWC”, and he accumulated a net worth of $33.25 Million.

Conclusion

These cricketers have not only possessed millions with their incredible skills but have also built successful careers outside the game. From endorsements to investments, the top richest cricketers in the world have redefined what’s possible. As cricket continues to grow, it’s thrilling to think about the next generation of cricketers and the amazing heights they’ll reach.

FAQs

1. How is net worth calculated for cricketers?

Net worth of a cricketer is determined by their earnings from matches, brand endorsements, sponsorships, investments, and other business ventures. It’s a dynamic figure that can fluctuate based on their performance, popularity, and market trends.

2. What are the factors that contribute to the net worth of cricketers?

Several factors contribute to the net worth of cricketers, including performance, popularity, investments, endorsements and sponsorships.

3. Who are some of the richest cricketers in the world?

While the rankings of richest cricketers in the world can change over time, some of the consistently richest cricketers are Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli and many more.

4. How has the income of cricketers changed over the years?

The income of cricketers has significantly increased over the past few years. The rise of T20 leagues, increased television viewership, and a growing global market for cricket have contributed to higher earnings and greater financial opportunities for top cricket players.

Rashid Khan Is Not Available For Test Matches Till November, Says ACB

Posted on August 30, 2024 by Harsh Vardhan Singh

As per the advice of Rashid Khan’s physician, he is not unavailable for tests till November 2024 says Afghanistan Cricket Board.

He will be unavailable for the test series against New Zealand, which is scheduled from 9 September to 13 September in Greater Noida, India. The star bowler is also doubtful for the test series against Zimbabwe, scheduled in December 2024 along with three ODIs and many T20I matches.

Reportedly, Rashid got injured while playing in Shpageeza Cricket League 2024. But ACB revealed that Rashid is available for the three-match ODI series in the UAE, scheduled from September 18 to 22.

Meanwhile, the preliminary squad of 20 members reached Greater Noida for preparation for the Test matches against New Zealand.