Once again, we are at the point where Pakistan have to win all of their remaining matches in an ICC event and hoping some results go their way. But the question is; despite the scenario, does Pakistan’s WTC25 final qualification still in the race? Despite having the lowest PCT per cent in all three years of the World Test Championship tournament?
This is very important to note. Pakistan does have a chance to qualify for the World Test Championship 2023-25 final. Like always in a very tough situation, certain games need to go their way with Pakistan themselves needs to win all of their remaining matches. A loss, however, will be enough to eliminate them.
If Pakistan do get eliminated, it will be the third straight World Test Championship event where the national team will fail to qualify for the final.
Also Read: Can Pakistan Win the 2023-25 WTC Cycle?
Pakistan’s WTC25 final qualification: How is it possible?
Good question for the viewers. How exactly Shan Masood’s side can qualify? It is an interesting take. The prediction took place that all home side would win their respective series, with Pakistan winning all series (including 2-0 in South Africa) will see Pakistan at 100 points or 59.52 per cent. This will put them just below India.
The series that will be in question will be the Border-Gavaskar trophy or Australia vs India series. India will be touring Australia for a five-match Test series. This will be the first time since 1992 that two sides will play a five-match Test series.
For Pakistan, the result must be India win 3-2, 4-1 or 5-0. Or Australia win only 3-2. If Australia’s 3-2 win happens, it will be enough for Australia to remain below Pakistan. That will put them at 55.26% PCT.
From this point it will be straight forward table; India is at the top with 69.30 followed by Pakistan and Australia.
Can Pakistan do it?
It is easier said than done, however. Considering how Pakistan has been so poor in cricket lately even fans have no hope for them. The national team are in a complete mess due to political influence, lack of players’ responsibilities and adaptability. The 2-0 loss to Bangladesh sparked an outrage, especially losing at home.
Shan Masood is under heavy scrutiny after leading Pakistan to just two series. His criticism as a captain may be unjustified but his batting sure does. Since the first England test in 2020, Shan’s record has been a forgettable one. He averaged 20 in 14 innings with only four fifties. Experts and fans even called for Shan to step down from captaincy. Chopping and changing will not solve the major issue; all three departments of Pakistan’s cricket.
Pakistan’s average in the third innings is just 14, which is the lowest among all members since January 2023. There have been three times when the national team failed to put on better targets for the opposition due to their third-innings batting. Their bowling average in all innings at the same period is 35.25, the ninth among all members. The drop catches are a different issue.
Unless Pakistan solves their issue in all three departments, they cannot compete in world cricket. Let alone one format. There should be strict measurements and brave decisions must be taken regarding fitness and some senior cricketers. If this continues, Pakistan cricket may cease to exist and the legacy of great players will be mixed in the mud.
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