India's WTC Final Scenario: How Australia's Win vs South Africa In 1st Test Turns The Tables?

India WTC chances - (Source: AFP)On Tuesday, Australia registered a 214-run win over South Africa to lead the three-match series 1-0. The defeat dented the Proteas’ WTC points. The Temba Bavuma-led side dropped to 3rd place with a 60.00 PCT. The defeat has also impacted India’s WTC chances, and this article will shed light on that.The fans are curious about how South Africa’s defeat has helped India’s WTC final qualification, and this article will look at the possible scenarios through which the Shubman Gill-led side can still make it to the top 2.Below are all the scenarios in which India can qualify for WTC Final 2027:If India Win All Their Remaining MatchesIndia have 7 Tests left in the current WTC cycle - 2 vs New Zealand, 5 vs Australia. At present, India are 5th on the table with 51.52. If the Shubman Gill-led side win all their remaining matches, they will have a maximum of 66.6%. Now, the Indian team need to pray that only one team either Australia, New Zealand, or South Africa finish above 66.6%.If Australia Win All Their Remaining MatchesIndia winning all of their 7 matches means that Australia will lose five matches. Now, if Australia lose five matches and win the rest, which is 6 matches, then they will have 68.8%, which would still be above India. So, Australia’s win over South Africa in the 1st Test has actually reduced India’s chances, because it has strengthened Australia’s chances.ALSO READUpdated WTC Points Table After Australia Defeat South Africa In 1st Test 2026If South Africa Win All Their Remaining MatchesIf South Africa win their remaining 9 matches, the maximum they can reach is 85.71 PCT, which is not so problematic for India, because it means that Australia lose 2 matches against the Proteas. In such a scenario, if Australia lose 2 matches against South Africa and India beat Australia in all five matches, the maximum Pat Cummins-led side can reach is 63.63%, which is lower than India.ConclusionSo, India will actually benefit if South Africa bounce back and defeat Australia in the remaining two matches. Overall, Australia winning against South Africa poses more of a threat to India’s chances than the Rainbow Nation defeating the Australians.Also, New Zealand is placed 2nd on the table with 72.22 PCT. They have 10 matches remaining. If India win their 2 Tests against the Kiwis, then the maximum Blackcaps can reach is 75 PCT, which is a threat to India's chances.ALSO READIndia Test And ODI Squad For New Zealand Delayed; BCCI Waiting For 3 Players