India in the final race…what is the challenge?

As the IPL 2026 season is underway, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has shifted focus to preparing the international schedule, especially the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025–27 cycle. India has already played nine Tests in the current cycle, winning four and losing four, and currently sits in sixth place on the points table. With nine more Tests scheduled before next March, India’s chances of reaching the final depend heavily on consistent performance.

Reports suggest that the BCCI is formulating a key strategy involving senior pacer Jasprit Bumrah, aiming to manage his workload while maximizing his availability for crucial matches. However, with upcoming ICC tournaments and the Olympics schedule, balancing his fitness has become a major challenge. Selectors are reportedly considering his participation across important Test series, including matches against New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Australia, while final decisions are expected after the IPL season.