The second Test match between India and Bangladesh at the Green Park Stadium in Kanpur has been significantly impacted by rain, casting a shadow over India’s World Test Championship ambitions. The first day’s play saw only 35 overs bowled due to the wet outfield, with Akash Deep claiming two wickets to restrict Bangladesh to a score of 107 for the loss of three wickets.
The second morning’s start was also delayed, with a persistent drizzle forcing the covers to remain on the pitch. With rain predicted for another day in Kanpur, there’s a strong likelihood that the Test could end in a draw, jeopardizing India’s strong position in the World Test Championship standings.
Currently, India sits comfortably at the top of the standings with a PCT of 71.67, having played 10 matches. They are in prime position to make their third consecutive final. A series victory over Bangladesh (2-0) would have meant India needed only three wins in their remaining eight matches to secure a spot in the final, with three of those games being against New Zealand at home.
However, if the rain disrupts the second Test and forces a draw, India’s task becomes significantly more challenging. They would then need to win five out of their next eight matches, assuming that other contenders for a top-two spot don’t falter.
This means India would have to sweep New Zealand 3-0 in the home series and win at least two Tests in the five-match Border-Gavaskar series against Australia in Australia. While India has won the series down under in the past two instances, this remains a daunting proposition.
The ongoing rain threatens to derail India’s strong run in the World Test Championship. The team will need to hope for a break in the weather to secure a victory in Kanpur and maintain their current position in the standings.
