'They’re playing really good cricket' - Shane Watson predicts finalists of WTC 2021-23

Former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson has made his predictions for the finalists of the World Test Championship 2021-23 going by the current standings. Currently, South Africa hold the pole position in the points table with six wins in eight games, with a win percentage of 75. Australia are in the second position despite the loss to Sri Lanka, with a win percent of 70 followed by Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan.

The previous edition of the WTC Cycle 2019-2021 saw India and New Zealand making the finals, and the travel restrictions due to lockdown had a major effect. This time, there has been a close fight for both the spots, and every win is going to matter from here on.

India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and West Indies have all had a decimal difference in their win percentage while South Africa and Australia could lose points in their away fixtures against England and India respectively. Pakistan still have an advantage with their remaining fixtures all being at home.

It’s going to be hard for South Africa and Australia to not make it: Shane Watson

Watson felt that the Proteas and Australia are the front runners to qualify for the finals and hailed them for playing good cricket. He praised Australia for their performances despite the final Test loss against Sri Lanka and added that India and Pakistan are two teams that can never be counted out. He noted the number of match winners in both the subcontinent nations and expects them to put a fight for the finalist spot in WTC Cycle 2021-23.

“Right now, the way I see it, it’s going to be hard for South Africa and Australia to not make it. They’re both playing really good cricket. Australia played good cricket apart from that last Test against Sri Lanka where they got swept up in turning conditions in the last innings,” Watson was quoted as saying by ICC.

“You can never discount India and Pakistan because they’ve got so many match winners outside of their home countries as well. Those two, I’d be very surprised if they don’t come knocking on the door leading into the final,” he added.