India vs Australia: WTC Keys, 5 wins needed for the final

Australia vs. India: A Key Duel with Major Implications

The clash between Australia and India, in itself, is a sporting event of great significance. However, with the final of the World Test Cricket Championship on the horizon, the stakes are significantly raised for both teams. The upcoming series, along with the home series against England, are crucial for qualification aspirations.

The Situation in India

India has played 4 series, accumulating 360 points, with a points percentage of 75%. India has two series remaining in the current cycle: against Australia and against England. Both are four-test series, which means the points allocation for both is the same: 30 points for a win and 10 for a draw. If New Zealand gets the maximum points from their series against Pakistan, their total will rise to 420, and their points percentage will be 70%. This means that 70% is the target India needs to surpass to stay ahead of New Zealand.

To achieve this, India needs at least 150 points, out of the 240 offered in these two series. This can happen in two ways: if India wins five matches, or if it wins four (120) and draws three (30).

Considering India’s exceptional home record, they will have a good chance of getting the maximum points against England; that will mean they will need at least one win, or three draws, in the four tests in Australia to reach that 150-point target.

Yes, for example, if India loses against Australia by a margin of 1-2, they will need 110 points from the series against England. Since a win will get 30 points and a draw 10, the only way they can reach 110 is if they win all four.

Australia’s Position

Australia has played 3 series, with 296 points and a points percentage of 82.22%. Australia currently has 296 points and needs to surpass 420 to have a points percentage above 70%, if the series against South Africa is played. If that series is canceled, their goal will be to surpass 336. Given that the South Africa series is expected to be three tests, there will be 40 points at stake for a win and 13 for a draw.

Despite numerous injury concerns, Australia is still in a strong position, thanks to the total points it has already accumulated. If the series against India ends 2-2, Australia will have 356 points and a percentage of 74.17%. From there, even a 1-0 series against South Africa will boost them to 422 points, and just beyond the reach of New Zealand. If they lose 1-2 to India, Australia will need a 2-0 series verdict against South Africa to stay above 70%.