India vs Australia: Requirements for the Cricket World Cup Final

Australia vs India: A Clash with Major Implications

The series between Australia and India, on its own, is a sporting event of great relevance. However, with the final of the World Test Championship (WTC) on the horizon in June, the encounter takes on even greater importance for both teams. New Zealand’s recent victory over the West Indies, with a score of 2-0, places them in third place in the championship table. If they manage to repeat this result against Pakistan, both Australia and India will have to strive to maintain their position.

India’s Perspectives

India has played 4 series, accumulating 360 points with a percentage of 75%. They have two series left in the current cycle: against Australia and England. Both are four-match series, which means the point allocation is the same: 30 points for a win and 10 for a draw. If New Zealand gets the maximum points in their series against Pakistan, their total will rise to 420, with a percentage of 70%. This sets 70% as the target India must surpass to stay ahead of New Zealand.

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.

Given India’s excellent home record, they have a good chance of getting the maximum points against England. This would mean they would need at least one win, or three draws, in the four matches against Australia to reach the target of 150 points.

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

Situation of Australia

Australia has played 3 series and has a total of 296 points, with a percentage of 82.22%. They need to surpass 420 points to have a percentage higher than 70%, if the series against South Africa is played. In case that series is canceled, their goal will be to surpass 336 points. If the series against South Africa, which is expected to be three matches, takes place, 40 points will be offered for a win and 13 for a draw.

Despite injury problems, 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%. From there, even a 1-0 series against South Africa would boost them to 422 points, surpassing New Zealand. If they lose 1-2 against India, Australia will need a 2-0 victory against South Africa to stay above 70%.