Madan Lal Highlights Importance of India's Victory for WTC Aspirations

India's recent 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the Galle Test has been deemed crucial for their World Test Championship aspirations by former cricketer Madan Lal. While the win improved India's win percentage, they remain fifth in the points table. Lal stresses the importance of upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia, urging the team to focus on winning each match to keep their qualification hopes alive. All-rounder Manav Suthar's impressive 10-wicket haul in the Test has also drawn praise. As India prepares for the next Test, the focus remains on building confidence and securing victories.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 19, 2026, 23:54 IST

India's Crucial Win Against Sri Lanka

In a significant match, India secured a 165-run victory over Sri Lanka in the Galle Test, a win that former cricketer Madan Lal believes is vital for maintaining their chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final for 2025-2027. He emphasized the necessity for the team to continue their winning streak in future matches.

Despite this victory, India's position in the WTC points table remained unchanged, with the Shubman Gill-led squad still in fifth place. However, their win percentage saw an increase from 48.14% to 53.33% following the match.

Madan Lal expressed that while the win is beneficial for India's WTC ambitions, the upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia will be pivotal. He noted that consistent victories are essential for keeping their qualification hopes alive.

India is set to tour New Zealand for a multi-format series from October to December, which includes two Test matches. Following that, they will host Australia for a five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in January and February.

Lal stated, "Winning every game is crucial for maintaining a chance. The upcoming series against New Zealand and Australia will be significant. If we keep winning, we might have an outside chance."

The second Test against Sri Lanka is scheduled to commence on August 23.

He highlighted the necessity of winning the next Test to boost team confidence, while recognizing the challenges posed by the forthcoming series against New Zealand and Australia. Lal urged the team to concentrate on winning each Test rather than fixating on WTC qualification.

"Winning the next Test is vital. If you win the first match and then the second, it builds confidence. The series against New Zealand will be tough, and Australia will be challenging as well. However, if we keep winning, our chances remain alive. It's important to focus on winning the next Test instead of worrying about the World Test Championship, or it may feel overwhelming," he remarked.

All-rounder Manav Suthar shone in the Galle Test, achieving a remarkable 10-wicket haul in just his second Test appearance.

Sri Lanka, chasing a target of 372, was bowled out for 206, despite notable contributions from Dhananjaya de Silva (59) and Sonal Dinusha (84) in the fourth innings. Suthar played a crucial role, taking four wickets in quick succession during the second session to conclude the innings.

Madan Lal commended Suthar's performance, praising his talent and bowling skills. He noted that Suthar's strong action and consistent line and length were key factors in his success and impressive 10-wicket haul.

"He is exceptionally talented. He performed well against Afghanistan and now has taken 10 wickets. His bowling action is excellent, and his line-and-length are commendable. With such abilities, he is bound to take wickets," Lal concluded.