IND vs BAN 2nd Test: Concerns Over India's WTC Final Qualification as Day 2 Called Off Due to Rain in Kanpur

Incessant rain and a wet outfield had the final say on Saturday as the second day of the ongoing India vs Bangladesh Test in Kanpur was called off without a ball being bowled. Only 35 overs were bowled on Day 1 as Bangladesh struggled to 107/3, with Indian pacer Akash Deep impressing by picking up two crucial wickets. However, continuous drizzle on Day 2 has kept the covers on, raising concerns that a significant chunk of play could be lost.

The inclement weather condition seems to be affecting India’s quest for a third consecutive World Test Championship Final.

As it stands, India lead the WTC standings with a percentage points (PCT) tally of 71.67 after 10 matches, putting them in a prime position to make their third consecutive final. A 2-0 series win over Bangladesh would have left India needing only three more wins from their remaining eight matches to secure a spot in the WTC final. However, with rain looming large over the second Test, a draw could complicate India’s path to the final.

Should this Test ended 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 top-two finish do not drop points.

This leaves India with a more challenging route, as they will likely need to clean sweep New Zealand 3-0 at home and secure at least two wins in the five-match Border-Gavaskar series against Australia in Down 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 their heads. The team’s dominant record at home, combined with their recent successes Down Under, gives India some confidence, but the margin for error has narrowed considerably if this match is washed out.

The series against New Zealand at home will be pivotal in shaping India’s campaign. While the Indian side has been virtually unbeatable on home soil, a 3-0 sweep against the Kiwis is crucial to lessen the burden of needing to win several games away in Australia.

(With Agency Inputs)