The Indian rivals may clash in the final of the ICC Test Championship, but there will be a repeat if it happens because India is first on the points table while Pakistan is 5th.
Pakistan and India have been competing against each other in ODI matches and T20 matches in ICC competitions, but cricket fans are longing to see the two traditional rivals face each other in a Test match.
However, now there is a possibility of a Test match between the two traditional rivals next year and this ray of hope is the ICC Test Championship, the final of which will be played in England next year, but there will be a repeat if the current points. India is first in the table while Pakistan is in 5th position and the two top teams will play the final in March next year.
WTC TEAMS POINT TABLE 2024
pos
team
played
won
lost
draw
Ded
points
pct
1
India
9
6
2
1
2
74
68.52
2
Australia
12
8
3
1
10
90
62.50
3
New Zealand
6
3
3
0
0
36
50.00
4
Sri Lanka
4
2
2
0
0
24
50.00
5
Pakistan
5
2
3
0
2
22
36.66
6
England
13
6
6
1
19
57
36.54
7
South Africa
4
1
3
0
0
12
25.00
8
Bangladesh
4
1
3
0
0
12
25.00
9
West Indies
7
1
5
1
0
16
19.05
The first cycle is the third period of the Test Championship 2023-25 and the possibility of the Indian team playing the final for the third time in a row is bright. They were defeated by New Zealand and Australia respectively, but Pakistan have yet to play this decisive match. However, compared to India, Pakistan's journey to the final is a bit more difficult. Pakistan started the third period of the Test Championship with a clean sweep against Sri Lanka and secured the top position, but after being whitewashed by Australia, they were relegated to the bottom.
Pakistan has played 5 Test matches in this period so far and 9 Test matches are to be played, but the good thing is that 7 out of 9 Test matches are to be played at home grounds. Pakistan will host a two-Test series against Bangladesh and the West Indies this year and a three-Test series against England, while the national team will travel to South Africa for a two-Test series next year. If the Pakistan team takes advantage of the home ground to get victories and also win the series against South Africa, its chances of playing in the championship final will increase. However, for this, it is imperative that second-placed Australia lose the upcoming 5-Test home series to India.
FAQS ABOUT PAK VS IND TEST MATCHES
Q1: What is the historical significance of Test matches between Pakistan and India?
A1: The Test matches between Pakistan and India are highly significant due to the long-standing cricketing rivalry between the two nations. The matches reflect not only competitive sportsmanship but also cultural pride and national identity. They often draw large audiences, creating excitement among fans globally.
Q2: How often do Pakistan and India play Test matches?
A2: The frequency of Test matches between Pakistan and India varies. Generally, they play a series every few years, depending on each country's cricket board schedules and political relations. However, due to historical and political reasons, the number of bilateral Test series has decreased significantly since the early 2000s.
Q3: What is the overall head-to-head record in Test matches between Pakistan and India?
A3: As of October 2023, India and Pakistan have played a number of Test matches against each other, with India having the slight edge in terms of victories. The exact numbers can vary as ongoing series may alter the statistics, so it's advisable to check the latest records from reliable cricket databases.
Q4: Where are Test matches between Pakistan and India usually held?
A4: Test matches can be held in either country or a neutral venue, depending on the security situation and the agreement between the cricket boards. Major venues include iconic stadiums like Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, and the Mohali Stadium.
Q5: What is the atmosphere like during Pak vs Ind Test matches?
A5: The atmosphere is electric, marked by passionate fans from both sides. The stands are filled with vibrant colors representing both national flags, and chants are common. However, the rivalry can also lead to tense moments, both on and off the field, given the intense history between the nations.
Q6: Are there players who are particularly famed for their performances in Pak vs Ind Tests?
A6: Yes, several players have distinguished themselves in these matches. For India, players like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and more recently Virat Kohli, have made significant contributions. For Pakistan, legends like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Younis Khan have left their mark in these encounters.
Q7: Do Test matches between Pakistan and India have any unique rules or formats?
A7: Test matches between Pakistan and India follow the standard rules of international cricket established by the ICC. There are no unique rules; however, the intensity, pressure, and media scrutiny surrounding these matches can create a distinct atmosphere compared to other series.
Q8: How do fans usually prepare for a Pak vs Ind Test match?
A8: Fans prepare by gathering with family and friends, donning their team's colors, and planning watch parties if attending the match in person is not possible. Social media discussions, cricket analyses, and predictions are commonplace leading up to the matches.
Q9: What impact do Test matches have on cricketing relations between Pakistan and India?
A9: Test matches can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, they promote sportsmanship and can serve as a platform for dialogue and interaction between the two nations. On the other hand, poor sportsmanship or political tensions can exacerbate existing tensions, affecting future matches and series.
Q10: How can fans stay updated on upcoming Pakistan vs India Test matches?
A10: Fans can stay updated through various channels, including official cricket board websites, sports news outlets, cricket-specific mobile apps, and social media platforms. Live broadcasts and streaming services also provide real-time updates and commentary during the matches.