ICC WTC final postponed, to be played from June 18-22
The final of the inaugural ICC World Test Championship (WTC), which was scheduled to commence on June 10, has been postponed. As per ANI, the decision has been taken keeping in mind the proximity between the WTC final and the final of IPL 2021. Notably, the final will now be held in Lord's from June 18-22, with June 23 acting as a reserve day.
India lead the ICC WTC points table
India's recent victory has put them on top of the table. They lead the table with 71.7% points won, with New Zealand (70%) and Australia (69.2%) following them. As per ICC's remodeled system, the two finalists will be decided by order of points percentage.
The top two spots are up for grabs
The top spots in the ICC WTC are up for grabs among the top four teams. India won the Border-Gavaskar series and will host England for a four-Test series. After a 2-0 series sweep over Sri Lanka, England (68.7) are now only 0.5% behind Australia on the standings. Australia have to win the series against South Africa to book a berth in the final.
Here are the other scenarios
Although South Africa are still in contention to qualify (mathematically), they need to sweep both their upcoming series (vs Pakistan and Australia) for this. Other results also need to go in their favor. Notably, the remaining teams, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, West Indies and Bangladesh will not be able to reach the final even if they win all their remaining fixtures.
A look at the ICC WTC points table
Here's how India can qualify for final
The upcoming Test series against England will decide the fate of Team India. In order to secure the qualification berth, India need to win at least two Tests without losing (2-0). If they lose one, they will need to win three games (3-1). However, a 0-3 or 0-4 defeat end their chances of making the ICC WTC final.
ECB confirms fixtures of English summer
Earlier in the day, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the fixtures of the upcoming English summer. The Joe Root-led side will host top-ranked New Zealand for two Test matches at Lord's (June 2-6) and Edgbaston (June 10-14). Additionally, England will also play three T20Is against Sri Lanka at Sophia Gardens (June 23 and June 24) and The Ageas Bowl (June 26).
