South Africa’s victory over Australia in the second Test has added another twist to the race for the 2027 World Test Championship (WTC) final, offering India a potential opening in the qualification battle. However, the road ahead remains difficult for Shubman Gill’s team, who must deliver consistently in their remaining seven Tests.

South Africa defeated Australia by an innings and 31 runs at St George’s Park in Gqeberha, levelling the three-match series 1-1. The result strengthened South Africa’s position in the WTC standings while preventing Australia from extending their advantage at the top.

WTC Points Table: Where Does India Stand?

Australia remain first in the WTC 2025-27 standings with a points percentage (PCT) of 75.00. New Zealand occupy second place with 72.22, followed by South Africa at 66.67. Bangladesh are fourth with a PCT of 55.56, while India are placed fifth at 51.52. India have collected 68 points from 11 Tests, winning five, losing four and drawing two.

Only the top two teams at the end of the league stage will qualify for the WTC final, scheduled to take place at The Oval in London from June 9 to 13, 2027. South Africa’s latest win keeps the qualification race competitive, but India still need to close the gap on the teams above them.

What Does India Need to Qualify for the WTC Final?

India have seven Tests remaining in the current championship cycle. They will play two Tests away against New Zealand before hosting Australia for a five-Test series.

To improve their qualification prospects, India must collect as many points as possible from these fixtures. Winning six of their remaining seven Tests would significantly strengthen their position, although qualification would also depend on the final points percentages of competing teams.

India have little room for further setbacks. Dropping points through defeats or draws could leave them relying heavily on other results, particularly those involving Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

Their upcoming series against New Zealand is especially important because the Black Caps are currently second in the standings. Strong results against them would help India both improve their own points percentage and put pressure on a direct rival.

South Africa's victory over Australia in the second #WTC27 Test has opened up the race for next year's World Test Championship Final 🤔

More 👇https://t.co/Ag5irO9kgu

— ICC (@ICC) October 23, 2026

Can South Africa’s Victory Help India?

South Africa’s win has complicated Australia’s campaign and strengthened the defending champions’ own qualification prospects. However, it does not automatically move India closer to the final.

The outcome of the remaining matches will determine whether India can make up the deficit. Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and Bangladesh all remain relevant to the qualification picture, meaning results across several series could influence the final standings.

India Face a Crucial Test in the WTC Race

India remain mathematically in contention, but their path to the 2027 WTC final is challenging. The team must turn its remaining fixtures into a strong run of results while hoping rival contenders drop points.

The upcoming seven Tests could ultimately decide whether India return to the championship decider or miss out on a place among the top two.