Pakistan's hopes of qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-2025 final suffered a massive setback on Sunday (August 25) as they were comprehensively defeated by Bangladesh by 10 wickets in the first Test of the two-match series. This marked Pakistan's first-ever loss against Bangladesh in Test cricket. With Bangladesh's first innings ending on the fourth day, the series opener appeared to be heading towards a draw. Pakistan had a strong position with nine wickets remaining at the start of day five. However, Bangladesh's bowlers turned the game around by taking five wickets in the first session of the day. Pakistan was eventually bowled out for just 146 runs, setting Bangladesh a target of 30 runs. In reply, Bangladesh chased down the total in less than seven overs without losing a wicket. Earlier in the match, the Shan Masood-led side declared their first innings at 448/6 before Bangladesh scored 565.
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Pakistan's WTC 2023-2025 final scenario after defeat against Bangladesh in 1st Test
Despite the defeat against Bangladesh, Pakistan's chances of qualifying for the WTC final for the first time are not entirely eliminated. While their prospects have been significantly impacted, they remain alive in the competition. However, the Shan Masood-led side's fate is now largely out of their own hands.
Following the remaining Test against Bangladesh, the Shan Masood-led side will host England and West Indies.
Subsequently, they will face the challenging two-match Test series in South Africa. If they manage to win all of their remaining games, they will conclude their WTC campaign with a win percentage of 70.24, which would be sufficient to secure a place in the WTC final.
Considering that table-toppers India and Australia are set to play a five-Test series against each other, a win percentage of 70.24 is likely to be more than enough for the WTC final spot. However, for this to happen, Shan Masood's men will need to win all of their remaining matches.
Even a single loss will likely end Pakistan's slim hopes of qualifying for the WTC final. Currently, Pakistan is languishing in the 8th position out of 9 teams in the competition with a win percentage of 30.56. Shan Masood & Co. will also need to rely on other results to secure a WTC final spot. They cannot surpass India if India wins eight of their remaining 10 Test matches. Similarly, Australia will finish above Pakistan if they win six of their remaining seven Tests, even if Pakistan wins all of their remaining games.
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