India - Pakistan Test match after 18 years? Here’s how arch-rivals can set up a blockbuster clash in red-ball cricket

The India-Pakistan cricket match is always a crowd-puller due to the long-lasting rivalry both on and off the field. When the Men in Blue and the Men in Green clash, the emotions and excitement of every citizen of both countries will be through the roof. However, due to geopolitical tension, the neighbours now face each other only in ACC or ICC tournaments.

The last time the two countries played a bilateral series was during Pakistan's tour of India in 2012-13 - two T20Is and three ODIs. Meanwhile, the last time both nations played a Test match was back in December 2007. Pakistan greats like Younis Khan, Salman Butt, Mohammad Yousuf and Shoaib Akhtar visited India for the three-match Test series.

It was India who emerged victorious on the back of their six-wicket win in the series opener. The subsequent two matches ended in a draw. Notably, legendary players like Sourav Ganguly, Anil Kumble, Rahul Dravid and Harbhajan Singh were part of the Indian team.

We haven't witnessed their encounter in red-ball cricket for nearly 17 years, but there is a high possibility that the wait will be over in the near future. The arch-rivals can potentially meet in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at the end of the 2023-25 WTC cycle.

Also Read: ICC concerned about Pakistan’s likely plans if India pulls out of Champions Trophy 2025

India and Pakistan's path to WTC finals 

India were the runner-up in the last two WTC editions. They currently top the WTC 2023-25 ​​cycle table with 68.52 percentage points. India's next assignment is against New Zealand and Australia. Although it won't be an easy task, Rohit Sharma and Co. are once again favourites to reach the summit clash.  

Pakistan, on the other hand, currently sit fifth in the points table with a percentage point won of 36.66. They have played just five Tests so far in the 2023-25 cycle. Pakistan will host Bangladesh and England this year before touring South Africa for a one-off Test.

If Shan Masood and Co. manage to finish in the top two of the table, along with India, then both teams will clash at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground for the grand finale.

Also Read: West Indies slip to bottom of World Test Championship table after series whitewash versus England