'It'll be a great run if India can qualify for WTC final from here': Rahul Dravid

Former India head coach Rahul Dravid believes qualifying for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final from their current position would represent a remarkable run for the team, with several challenging assignments still ahead in the 2025-27 cycle. India are currently fifth in the WTC standings with a points percentage of 53.33, leaving them with little margin for error. However, Dravid believes the team has the quality to mount a strong challenge for a top-two finish if it can build momentum over the remaining matches.

India remain in contention

Dravid said India have made an encouraging start to their ongoing Test assignment against Sri Lanka, with the victory in the opening Test in Galle giving their WTC campaign an important boost.

India registered a convincing 165-run win in Galle and will be looking to consolidate their position when they take on Sri Lanka in the second Test in Colombo. Another victory would strengthen their chances before tougher contests later in the championship cycle.

Dravid stressed that keeping the squad fit would be important as India prepare for demanding series against New Zealand and Australia. India are scheduled to travel to New Zealand before hosting Australia for a five-Test series.

The former India captain expects the Australia series to be fiercely contested, pointing out that the current generation of Australian cricketers has not won a Test series in India. He believes that record will provide additional motivation for the visitors when the two teams meet.

New Zealand challenge awaits

Dravid also identified the away series against New Zealand as a major test for India, particularly because several members of the current squad have limited experience of playing Test cricket in those conditions.

India's younger players will have to adapt quickly to the conditions, especially with several experienced names from previous overseas campaigns no longer part of the Test set-up. Dravid believes the New Zealand tour could therefore prove crucial in determining India's chances of reaching the WTC final.

Australia currently occupy the top position in the WTC standings, while South Africa and New Zealand are also ahead of India in the race. India will need a sustained sequence of positive results to move into the top two and secure a place in the championship decider.

Dravid backs Sooryavanshi

Dravid also spoke about promising youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and backed the 15-year-old to eventually make the transition to Test cricket, while cautioning against rushing his development.

Having worked closely with Sooryavanshi during his stint with Rajasthan Royals, Dravid believes the youngster possesses the skills required to succeed in the longer format. However, he feels exposure to domestic red-ball cricket over the next couple of seasons will be important before he is considered for Test cricket.

Dravid indicated that scheduling could emerge as a challenge if Sooryavanshi's white-ball commitments continue to increase. Finding enough opportunities to play first-class cricket, he suggested, would be crucial to the youngster's development and eventual progression towards the Test side.