India vs Australia: WTC keys; How many wins does India need?

Australia vs India: A Crucial Duel with Major Implications

The clash between Australia and India, already a highlight in the cricket world, takes on an added dimension due to the proximity of the World Test Championship final in June. Both teams have a lot at stake as they seek to secure their place in the final. New Zealand’s recent victory over the West Indies has positioned them in third place in the championship standings. If they achieve the same result against Pakistan, both Australia and India will have to work hard to stay above them.

India: Rating Outlook

India has played four series, accumulating 360 points with a percentage of 75. They have two series remaining in the current cycle: against Australia and England. Both are four-test series, which means the points allocation is the same: 30 points for a win and 10 for a draw. If New Zealand scores all the 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 impressive home record, they will have a good chance of getting full points against England. This means they will need at least one win, or three draws, in the four tests in Australia to reach the 150-point target.

For example, if India loses to Australia by a margin of 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, as a win awards 30 points and a draw, 10.

Australia: Current Situation

Australia has played three series, with 296 points and a percentage of 82.22. Currently, Australia needs to surpass 420 points to reach a percentage above 70%, if the series against South Africa takes place. In case of cancellation, the goal will be to exceed 336 points. The series against South Africa, of three tests, will award 40 points per victory and 13 per draw. Despite injury concerns, Australia is in a solid position thanks to accumulated points. If the series against India ends 2-2, Australia will add 356 points, with a percentage of 74.17. Even a 1-0 series against South Africa would take them to 422 points, surpassing New Zealand. If they lose 1-2 against India, Australia will need a 2-0 result against South Africa to stay above 70%.