Cricket: India legends face must‑win test against Australia after De Villiers' carnage at WCL 2025
India need massive response after crushing defeat to SAC
Despite entering their second match of the competition as clear favourites according to the best online betting sites in India, the India Champions suffered a humiliating loss to South Africa and now face a major uphill battle if they are to defend their World Championship of Legends title.
The Proteas looked a class above the Men in Blue and romped to an 88-run victory via the DLS method after an issue with floodlights at the County Ground in Northampton forced the match to be called early.
However, India were never really in with a chance of winning the game after South Africa posted a formidable target of 208/6 in their 20 overs. The reigning champs were reduced to 111/9 in 18.2 overs when the floodlights shut off and brought an end to the match.
AB de Villiers rolled back the years for the Proteas, smashing a stunning 63 runs off just 30 deliveries, while also producing a masterful catch in the deep to dismiss Yusuf Pathan and earn himself a Player of the Match award.
Mr. 360 followed that performance with an even more scintillating showing against England, bashing the Three Lions’ bowlers to all parts for an unbeaten 116 off just 51 balls and propelling his side to a commanding 10-wicket victory.
India are the only team in the competition yet to register a point and will have to now do so against an Australian side that they faced twice last year and split the results, one win and one defeat. A loss for the Men in Blue will see them forced to win their final two games to progress to the knockouts.
Pakistan vs India controversy to resurface in WCL knockouts?
After India pulled out of what was expected to be the marquee fixture of the group stage against Pakistan, WCL organisers were faced with a tough decision and eventually handed the two points to the Green Shirts, who were completely against sharing the spoils, given that they were prepared to play the match.
However, with the arch rivals still in the running to reach the knockouts, there is a very real possibility that they will cross paths again, either in the semi-final or final. The question, therefore, remains: will a potential match between the nations still go ahead?
Unfortunately, a certain answer does not exist at this time. Tournament organisers have not made a ruling as yet, but there is a belief that the likely outcome will see the match postponed, called off, or both teams being declared joint champions if they reach the final.
Indeed, the situation will be trickier if they are drawn against each other in the semis, where the expected course of action could see the team with the higher points tally progress to the final (however, official confirmation is still awaited).
