Pakistan’s ambitions for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final have taken a significant hit following a surprising defeat to Bangladesh in the opening Test of their two-match series in Rawalpindi.
Bangladesh's clinical performance saw them comfortably chase down a modest target of 30 runs without losing a wicket, securing a 1-0 lead in the series.
This unexpected loss could have serious repercussions for Pakistan's chances of advancing to the WTC finals.
Historically, Pakistan has dominated Bangladesh in Test cricket, winning 12 out of their 14 encounters. However, this victory marks Bangladesh’s first-ever Test win against Pakistan, with one previous match ending in a draw.
In the latest WTC standings, Pakistan's position has become precarious. India currently leads the table with 74 points from 9 matches, boasting a strong record of 6 wins, 2 losses, and 1 draw, and a points percentage (PCT) of 68.51%. Australia follows in second place with 90 points from 12 matches, having won 8, lost 3, and drawn 1, giving them a PCT of 62.5%.
New Zealand holds third place with 36 points from 6 matches, recording 3 wins and 3 losses, with a PCT of 50.0%. England is in fourth place with 69 points from 14 matches, achieving 7 wins, 6 losses, and 1 draw, and a PCT of 41.07%. Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are tied for fifth place, each with 24 points from 5 matches, with 2 wins and 3 losses, reflecting a PCT of 40.0%.
South Africa is in seventh place with 28 points from 6 matches, having won 2, lost 3, and drawn 1, resulting in a PCT of 38.89%. Pakistan has slipped to eighth place with 22 points from 6 matches, securing 2 wins and 4 losses, leading to a PCT of 30.56%. At the bottom of the table, the West Indies have only 20 points from 9 matches, with 1 win and 6 losses, and a PCT of 18.52%.
With Pakistan’s prospects for reaching the WTC final now in jeopardy, the upcoming second Test against Bangladesh, scheduled from August 30 to September 3 at the same venue, has become a crucial match for Babar Azam’s side.
A victory is essential if Pakistan hopes to keep their WTC campaign alive and avoid further setbacks.
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