India Tightens Grip on WTC, Sri Lanka Boosts Final Hopes

India's dominance in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025 cycle continues unabated as they extended their lead at the summit with a resounding 280-run victory over Bangladesh in Chennai. The triumph solidifies their position as the team to beat, with a percentage of 71.67%.

Ravichandran Ashwin was the architect of India's success, earning Player of the Match honors for his all-round brilliance. His century in the first innings and six-wicket haul in the second proved decisive. Bangladesh, chasing a mammoth target of 515, were bowled out for 234, with Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja sharing the spoils.

The victory propelled India to 12 crucial WTC points, further cementing their grip on the top spot. Bangladesh, on the other hand, slipped to sixth in the standings with a percentage of 39.29%.

Meanwhile, Sri Lanka boosted their chances of reaching the WTC final with a thrilling 63-run victory over New Zealand in Galle. Dhananjaya de Silva's side now occupies third place with a 50% win rate, putting them in contention for a top-two finish.

Prabath Jayasuriya emerged as the hero for Sri Lanka, claiming match figures of 9-204 and earning the Player of the Match award. His tactical brilliance in holding off bowling New Zealand out on the fourth day allowed the bowlers to return refreshed on the final day.

Sri Lanka's victory has made them a strong contender for a spot in the WTC final. With a potential maximum percentage of 69.23%, they need a clean sweep against South Africa and a 2-0 series win over Australia at home to secure their place.

The race for the final two spots in the WTC finale at Lord's is heating up, with India, Sri Lanka, and England all in contention. The upcoming series will be crucial in determining who will join Australia, the current table-toppers, in the battle for the coveted trophy.

Tags: #WorldTestChampionship, #India, #Bangladesh, #SriLanka, #NewZealand