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Xtra Time Web Desk: New Zealand secured only their third Test win on Indian soil, chasing down a modest target of 107 runs in Bengaluru to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match Test series. The win saw the Black Caps soar up the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) standings from sixth to fourth, their win-loss percentage climbing to 44.44%.

For Indian fans, accustomed to dominance at home, the shock was palpable. India's percentage dropped from 70.83% to 68.06%, loosening their previously firm grip on a place in the WTC final. Headlines suggested trouble in paradise, and questions were raised: Could this one defeat derail India's charge toward next year's marquee final?

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Despite the setback in Bengaluru, India still sit comfortably atop the WTC table. With two more Tests at home against New Zealand and a five-match series in Australia looming, India remains in control of its own destiny. Their path to the WTC final is clear: win at least four of their remaining seven matches and draw two, and they're guaranteed a spot.

Read More: IND vs NZ: Shocking! Rating the performance of Team India in Bengaluru Test

If India can achieve those results, they'll finish the cycle with a win-loss percentage of 67.54%-a figure that should be enough to secure a place in the final. Even South Africa, currently sitting at 38.89%, could only reach a maximum of 69.44% if they win all of their remaining six matches, which is no small feat. Australia, meanwhile, can top out at 64.04% if they win four matches, draw two, and lose one against India in their five-Test series.

In other words, while the loss to New Zealand dents India's aura of invincibility, it does little to significantly damage their prospects of reaching the final.