'Too early to think about WTC' - Rohit Sharma opines on WTC final race after historic Pune defeat

The Indian team has suffered an unfortunate Test series defeat at the hands of New Zealand on home soil, making it their first such setback in 12 years. Despite this blow, Team India's chances for the World Test Championship (WTC) final remain very much alive, however with increased complications.

The recent loss in the second Test in Pune, where India fell short by 113 runs, has opened up crucial discussions about the team's journey forward in the WTC race. Skipper Rohit Sharma gave his take on the same and feels it's very early to think about the WTC. 

"It's too early to think about WTC. I think I'm just hurting because we lost the game. That is what I will say. I can't think about what lies ahead and can it affect our chances and all of that stuff. I think we didn't play well enough in these two games and that is hurting. We lost the series. That is hurting, clearly," Rohit said in the press conference.

Also Read: ‘New Zealand played better than us, we failed to capitalise on certain moments’ - Captain Rohit Sharma after Test series loss

New Zealand became the third team in this century to win a Test series on Indian soil

India currently leads the WTC points table with 62.82 PCT and 98 points, having secured eight victories in 13 matches. Meanwhile, Australia is in close second with 62.50 PCT and 90 points. With six games remaining in the current cycle, India needs to secure at least three victories to maintain their strong position in the championship race. 

Looking ahead, India's next big challenge will be the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia in November. Despite the recent setback against New Zealand, India's impressive record in Australia over the past six years makes them formidable contenders. 

Meanwhile, New Zealand made history by becoming only the third team in this century to win a Test series on Indian soil. Before this defeat, India had maintained an 18-series winning streak at home, the longest such run in Test history.