India vs Australia: Keys to the 2023 Cricket World Cup Final

Australia vs India: A Key Duel with Major Implications

The clash between Australia and India transcends the category of a simple sporting event. This series, with the backdrop of the World Test Championship final in June, presents great importance for both teams. Qualification is at stake, adding an extra layer of excitement. New Zealand, after its 2-0 victory against the West Indies, rises to third place in the championship table. If they manage to replicate this result against Pakistan, both Australia and India will have to strive to maintain their position.

India in the Race for Qualification

India has played 4 series, accumulating 360 points with a percentage of 75%. They have two crucial series remaining: against Australia and England. Both are four-test series, with the same point allocation: 30 for a win and 10 for a draw. If New Zealand scores all possible points against Pakistan, their total will rise to 420, with a percentage of 70%. India’s goal is to exceed that 70% to stay ahead. To achieve this, India needs at least 150 points out of the 240 available in these two series. This can be achieved in two ways: by winning five matches or by winning four and drawing three.

With an impressive home record, India has a good chance of getting maximum points against England. This would involve the need for at least one victory or three draws in the four tests against Australia to reach 150 points.

For example, if India loses against Australia 1-2, they will need 110 points from the series against England. The only way to reach 110 points is by winning all four matches, since a win awards 30 points and a draw, 10.

Australia: Solid Position Despite Challenges

Australia, with 3 series played, has 296 points and a percentage of 82.22%. It needs to exceed 420 points to reach a percentage above 70% if the series against South Africa takes place. If this series is canceled, the goal will be to exceed 336 points. The series against South Africa, which is expected to be three tests, will offer 40 points per victory and 13 per draw.

Despite injury concerns, Australia remains in a favorable position thanks to accumulated points. If the series against India ends 2-2, Australia will add 356 points, with a percentage of 74.17%. A 1-0 victory against South Africa would take them to 422 points, surpassing New Zealand. If they lose 1-2 against India, they will need a 2-0 victory over South Africa to stay above 70%.