Former Australia captain and legend Ricky Ponting has remarked that his country’s chances of advancing to the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) will depend on their performance in the Border-Gavaskar series against India in 2023. The 47-year-old has also pointed out the increasing rivalry between the two teams in recent years.

Australia is currently in the second spot in the World Test Championship rankings, following South Africa at the top spot. India, on the other hand, is occupying the fourth spot on the list, almost 18 point percentages (PCT) behind the Aussies.

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However, Ponting feels that teams like India, Pakistan, West Indies and Sri Lanka can leapfrog Australia to reach the final. “I think Australia’s chances really hinge on the upcoming Indian tour, to be honest and India’s chances are a little bit the same,” he said on The ICC Review.

Ponting also feels that bilateral series between Australia and India always makes headlines and is always talked about. “It is always a much-anticipated series, Australia and India, whether it be in Australia or in India, it’s much hyped up and talked about,” he quipped. 

South Africa, who currently have 71.43 PCT and at the top spot of the rankings, have been enjoying immense Test success in recent times. Ponting feels the Proteas are the surprise package currently, who have won five Tests in this year.

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“Their record at home is absolutely outstanding, they`re a very hard team to beat at home as we just saw with Sri Lanka as well,” he said.

The Australian pundit also spoke about Sri Lanka and Pakistan teams in the show. He feels that despite being much down the ladder in the rankings, Sri Lanka’s Test victory over Australia is a positive sign from them for the future.

He also praised the Pakistani team’s passion about the game and their ability to produce many top-level players over the years.